Scotland can hurt “amazing stars” of Portugal – Che Adams

Che Adams says Scotland respect the “amazing stars” they will face when they take on Portugal at Hampden in the Nations League on Tuesday, but believes Steve Clarke’s men have the ability to “hurt” their illustrious opponents.

The Scots gave a credible performance when the sides met in Lisbon last month and looked on course to claim a point until Cristiano Ronaldo struck late in the game to secure a 2-1 win for the hosts.

After a similar story in Zagreb against Croatia where they also lost 2-1 on Saturday, Adams says want to go “toe-to-toe” with another of the world’s top sides at Hampden.

“We know how good of a nation they are and how many amazing stars they’ve got, but it’s down to us and what we do on the pitch,” said the Torino striker.

“We’ve definitely got the team to hurt them and shake them about. That’s what we proved against Croatia, against the top nation as well.

“Tuesday is going to be no different.”

Scotland were criticised for what many perceived to be an overly-cautious approach at the Euros where they managed just one goal in three games as they failed to progress beyond the group stage.

Adams believes the team has demonstrated a desire to offer more as an attacking threat in recent games.

“I’ve definitely seen the changes in the mentality in the attacking play against Croatia,” he said.

“We played in a back four and we were definitely on the front foot and getting after them.

“I think it just helps having more bodies on the pitch to put them under pressure and create chances.

“I think we created a few against Croatia the other day and I think it just puts a positive spin on things if you have more people on the pitch to help in attack and get the ball back.”

“Everyone in the nation wants us to play against the best and go toe-to-toe with them.

“Tomorrow is going to be no exception. Everyone’s going to be up for it. The crowd are going to be up for it.

“As long as we start fast and we start quick, we’ll be in for a good night.”