Steve Clarke has explained why he decided to snub Leigh Griffiths and David Turnbull for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers versus Austria, Israel and The Faroe Islands. The Scotland boss explained his decision live on Sky Sports earlier today, clearing up some selections and addressing the issues raised by his selections.
Turnbull was perhaps the most glaring omission, especially given his sparkling form in the Celtic midfield this season but Clarke appeared to suggest that there will be a future for Turnbull under Clarke for Scotland, he just needs to bide his time.
“Midfield is a really strong area. David is a good player. Got into the Celtic team. He’s doing really well and is one for the future and one to keep an eye on.”
Leigh Griffiths, meanwhile, has been excluded from the latest squad which will upset the 30-year-old given his ambition to play at the Euros this summer. Clarke pinpointed the lack of gametes for the hitman as the reason that players like Old McBurnie have been preferred to the Celtic poacher.
“I think for Leigh it’s well documented that he’s not getting much game-time at Celtic. I’ve spoken to all the boys that were in the last squad and not in this squad. We’ve had good private conversations and they know what to expect and know what to do to try and get back into the squad. Leigh is one of those players.”
Turnbull’s omission seems quite bizarre with all things considered. He has been one of Celtic’s standouts this season and given players like Kenny McLean and John Fleck have been included, the decision not to include a player that has contributed 14 goals to Celtic seems strange.
