Clarke's Key Decisions for Scotland vs Brazil: Who Should Start?

Scotland face Brazil in a crucial World Cup match that could secure their first knockout stage progression. Key decisions include whether to start Gannon-Doak or Hanley, and who should lead the attack. Fans and pundits weigh in on Clarke's selection choices.

Scotland Face Brazil in Pivotal World Cup Clash

Scotland will face Brazil on Wednesday in what could be the most significant match in the history of the men's national side. A draw would secure Scotland's progression to the knockout stages of a major finals for the first time, and even a narrow loss might be sufficient to advance from Group C.

This match represents the biggest challenge in Steve Clarke's seven-year tenure as head coach. What are the critical decisions he must make? And what would you choose?

The game will be broadcast live on BBC One and , BBC Radio Scotland, and BBC Radio 5 Live. Live text updates are available on the app and website.

Should Gannon-Doak Start?

Bournemouth winger Ben Gannon-Doak has been Scotland's most threatening player in a World Cup campaign that has seen limited attacking output. After playing 75 minutes against Haiti, the 20-year-old came on after an hour in the defeat by Morocco and recorded the most crosses (three) of any Scotland player.

However, Clarke has expressed concerns about the former Celtic player's defensive contributions. Additionally, Gannon-Doak's limited game time this season due to injury resulted in cramp against Haiti, leading to his substitution. Considering the sweltering conditions in Miami, he is unlikely to endure a full match.

Should he start or remain an impact substitute, as in the Morocco game?

Former Hibernian and Celtic midfielder Scott Allan told the Scottish Football Podcast: "My biggest concern is we just don't create enough chances. Unless Gannon-Doak is on the pitch, we don't look like we're going to hit the byline and get a cross in the box."

Does Hanley Retain His Place?

Centre-back Grant Hanley was responsible for Morocco's goal in the second minute when he stepped up to play Ismael Saibari offside but instead allowed the forward to break through and score.

Hanley has been a key figure for Clarke due to his experience, aerial ability, and consistency. However, if Scott McKenna has recovered from his calf injury, he could be considered for selection.

Former Motherwell and Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday suggested on the Scottish Football Podcast that McKenna should come in. "McKenna would come in for me because I think we need a lot more athleticism at the back than Hanley can give you," he said. "He's been a fantastic servant for Scotland - 70 caps. But I think there's better options to play that role."

Allan, however, would keep Hanley alongside Jack Hendry, adding: "As much as I think Hanley was poor for the first goal against Morocco, after that he did okay. He recovered quite well, defended quite well when crosses came into the box."

Does It Matter If Scotland Lose and Still Make History?

Additional include naming the seven Scotland survivors from Clarke's first squad and how Scotland can handle the World Cup heat.

McLean Makes His Case

Bournemouth's Ryan Christie was introduced to strengthen Scotland's midfield against Morocco, but Kenny McLean replaced him on 71 minutes and made a notable impact.

Allan believes the Norwich City midfielder helped turn the game with his intelligent ball use as Scotland finished the stronger side. "We need a lot better use of that midfielder when you are in that low block," he said. "Kenny is probably the best player there for taking a touch and then looking to find a pass forward quickly."

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Is This a Game for Dykes?

Che Adams has started up front in both games but has managed only three touches in the opposition box. This is not solely due to Adams, as service has been limited. He was involved in Scotland's only goal against Haiti and might have forced a red card against Morocco.

Halliday said: "Adams can play on the last line, which is important if you're trying to turn the ball over and you're trying to hit the space quickly. I just don't think Lyndon Dykes has got the pace anymore to play on that last line and to get on the end of things."

If Brazil dominate possession and Scotland are forced to clear the ball long, Dykes' aerial presence might be more advantageous. He won one of his four aerial duels when replacing Adams, who won none from three, against Morocco.

Allan commented: "The way Clarke will look at it is, if you are under pressure and you have to clear long at times, you get more chance of recovering a second ball if it's going up to Dykes because he's got that spring and he's decent in the air."

What Would You Do in Clarke's Position?

Having considered the pundits' opinions, now it is your turn to select your preferred formation and starting XI. Avoiding defeat would mean making history.