Scotland vs Belarus: Key context
The World Cup qualifying campaign continues at Hampden Park in Glasgow as Scotland host Belarus on Sunday afternoon. Victory for Steve Clarke’s side would move them closer to qualification, while Belarus will be hopeful of creating an upset on Scottish soil.
Team news: Hickey ruled out, fresh faces arrive
Scotland have confirmed that Aaron Hickey will miss the game due to a knee knock sustained late in the previous fixture. The Brentford full-back limped off after 58 minutes and the Scottish FA stated he will not be available for Sunday’s Group C clash. Clarke indicated post-match that Hickey was always a doubt and his injury has been aggravated, prompting a late reshuffle.
To cover Hickey’s absence, Derby County’s Max Johnston had already been called up and will be in contention to feature. More significantly, Scotland have brought in two new midfield options: 22-year-old Josh Mulligan and 23-year-old Connor Barron. Mulligan’s first senior call-up marks a major step in his burgeoning career after his summer move from Dundee to Hibernian, where he has continued to impress in the Scottish Premiership. Barron, a Rangers midfielder with one cap, has already experienced international life, debuting as a substitute in the friendly win over Liechtenstein in June.
Why Mulligan and Barron?
With Lewis Ferguson suspended for bookings in the Greece game and Ryan Christie also suspended, Clarke has had to look deeper into his squad for cover in midfield and on the flanks. Mulligan’s energy, technique, and box-to-box willingness offer Clarke a modern midfield alternative that can press high and contribute in both phases of play. Barron’s arrival adds a different dynamism: a young, versatile midfielder who can operate behind the front line and contribute in ball progression from deeper zones. Both players represent a combination of potential and readiness to step up when called upon on the international stage.
Head coach Clarke’s perspective
Clarke spoke glowingly about the readiness of Mulligan and Barron to step into competitive international duty. While the squad misses Hickey’s attacking instincts on the left side, Clarke will be keen to balance youth with experience in a must-win scenario. The manager’s approach has consistently emphasized squad depth and the development pathway for domestic players, and this selection underscores that philosophy as Scotland aim to consolidate progress in Group C.
What this game means for Scotland
Scotland currently face Belarus with a chance to maintain momentum in their World Cup qualifying journey. The absence of Hickey adds a layer of complexity in the wide areas, but it also gives Mulligan and Barron an opportunity to imprint themselves in a high-stakes environment. Clarke will be looking for a controlled, assertive performance from his side, combining compact defensive shape with fluid attacking patterns to break down a Belarus side that will be keen to upset the odds.
Where to watch and follow
Coverage details: BBC Scotland, BBC Two and the BBC iPlayer will broadcast the match, with BBC Radio Scotland and Radio Nan Gaidheal providing audio coverage. For those following online, live text updates and in-play clips will be available on the BBC Sport website and app, as Scotland target three crucial points at Hampden.
Player focus: Hickey’s absence and the new call-ups
Hickey’s injury absence is a setback for Clarke, especially given the left-back’s recent return to full fitness after a challenging spell with hamstring trouble. The inclusion of Mulligan and Barron is an exciting development for Scotland’s future, as both players appear ready to contribute at international level and help maintain competitiveness across the squad.
Final thoughts
The match at Hampden is shaping up to be a test of Scotland’s depth and adaptability. Hickey’s knock creates a small disruption, but the fresh faces provide opportunity for growth and competition for places in the months ahead. With Clarke aiming to maximize performance while continuing to nurture homegrown talent, Scotland will be determined to claim the win and strengthen their World Cup qualifying campaign.
