There’s positives for Manchester United and Scotland star Scott McTominay ahead of the Euro 2020 play-off semi-final against Israel next week.
The midfielder has had a difficult start to the season at Old Trafford, featuring in just one of Manchester United’s opening Premier League games.
His senior appearances for Scotland in September also came under scrutiny as Steve Clarke opted to play him at centre-back instead of central midfield.
Before Manchester United faced Brighton in Carabao Cup duty on Wednesday night, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer challenged his fringe players to prove they deserve to play in the next game against Tottenham.
McTominay did just that, scoring a superb header as the Red Devils ran out 3-0 winners on their travels to the Amex. It was a boost for McTominay as he looks to his form that earned him a long-term deal at Old Trafford last term.
He’ll likely feature in Clarke’s three at the back system next week as Scotland face Israel again at Hampden. This time the stakes are raised, with both teams looking to book a spot in the Euro 2020 play-off final, a game that could see either nation qualify for next summer’s tournament.