Scotland's final World Cup squad decision hinges on Conway's fitness in 2026

Steve Clarke will finalize Scotland’s 2026 World Cup squad on Tuesday, awaiting injury news on Tommy Conway before deciding his inclusion.

Scotland's Tuesday deadline Steve Clarke, the head coach of Scotland, must finalize the squad list for this summer's World Cup by Tuesday. By then, he expects to have a clear picture of whether Tommy Conway can travel if he is selected. The Middlesbrough striker was forced off the field in the 73rd minute of Tuesday’s Championship play-off semi-final against Southampton, leaving the match in tears after his side’s 2-1 defeat. The club has not yet disclosed details about the 23-year-old’s injury status. ## Conway's injury impact Tommy Conway’s injury could influence Steve Clarke’s squad selection for the 2026 World Cup. The Middlesbrough striker exited the promotion play-off game against Southampton with an apparent injury, ending his hopes of adding to his five goals in the last ten Championship matches. His absence leaves a potential gap in Clarke’s forward options as the squad announcement approaches. The club has not released an update on the severity of Conway’s condition. ## Stewart's play-off role Ross Stewart scored for Southampton just before half-time to level the play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough. His performance in the 2-1 victory secured his side’s place in the final, though his participation in the Southampton vs Curacao friendly remains uncertain. The English Football League has charged Southampton with spying on opponents during training, a claim the club has not denied. If found guilty, Stewart could face disciplinary action before the scheduled match. ## McBurnie's recall attempt Oli McBurnie, the Hull City striker, has made a direct appeal to Steve Clarke for a recall to the Scotland squad. The 29-year-old last earned a cap in 2021 but has not featured since, despite scoring 18 goals in 41 appearances for Hull. Hull City advanced to the play-off final with a 2-0 aggregate win over Millwall, and McBurnie started both legs of the tie. He has not featured for Scotland in over four years. ## Clarke's squad considerations Steve Clarke has indicated he is 'more or less set in my mind' about the majority of the 26 players he plans to take to the World Cup finals. However, he admitted that two spots remain potentially open, with injuries and recent performances still factors. The squad must be finalized before Tuesday, ahead of the 30 May friendly against Curacao and the 6 June warm-up against Bolivia. Clarke has a history of loyalty to players who have performed consistently for the national team. ## Potential squad newcomers The provisional squad list, which can include up to 55 players, may feature uncapped talents like Stephen Welsh. The 26-year-old defender, currently on loan at Motherwell from Celtic, has impressed during his spell in Scotland. Clarke has not confirmed whether any uncapped players or under-21 internationals will make the final 26-man roster. The final selection is expected to be announced before the 23 May play-off final at Wembley. ## Scotland's pre-World Cup fixtures Scotland are scheduled to face Curacao in a friendly at Hampden Park on 30 May, marking their first warm-up match ahead of the World Cup. Their second preparation game is set for 6 June against Bolivia in Harrison, New Jersey. These fixtures come after the announcement of the final squad, which will be Clarke’s last chance to assess fitness and form. The team’s preparations will conclude before the tournament begins.