Steve Clarke has indicated that he will use tonight’s game against Austria as an opportunity to rotate his squad. The game in Vienna is merely a friendly given that the World Cup Play-Off Semi-Final against Ukraine was postponed due to Russia’s invasion but Clarke is hoping to spread the game time amongst his squad – which might be good news for Celtic.
As reported by PLZ, Clarke said that he would be making changes from the side that drew aginst Poland on Thursday.
“Yeah, I think looking at the bigger picture and in terms of fairness to the squad more than anything, taking out the club issues, this is the game that I will probably rotate a little bit more than I would do for the second game of an international break.”
However, he did say that he had no hesitation in playing players regardless of what they had on at the weekend.
“It is not too bad because the game is a Tuesday night for us.
“They can recover Wednesday, recover Thursday and be ready to go on Friday. Everyone will be fit and well for the weekend, injuries permitting of course.”
Clarke opted to start Callum McGregor and Greg Taylor in the draw against Poland last week. Taylor was replaced by Aaron Hickey after 67 minutes whilst the Celtic skipper lasted ten minutes longer than his teammate, being replaced on 77 minutes by Ryan Jack. The indications are that the manager will use his squad meaning that players like Hickey and Jack, who came from the bench will likely be given a starting role.
Given that Celtic face Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday, it is positive that two players that will be nailed on to start will not be forced to play a substantial amount of football for their country ahead of a vital game. Had the game been a competitive match, you would be totally in favour of the best players playing but given that it is friendly, it makes sense to spread the minutes and let McGregor and Taylor return safely.
