With captain Andy Robertson a certainty to win his 98th cap at left wing-back, and Aaron Hickey surely in prime position to start on the other side, where does that leave Scotland’s wide attacking options?
Ben Gannon-Doak was so key for Scotland under Clarke due to his speed and ability to beat players. Josh McPake has shown a similar ability for Hearts on the same side.
However, with Pocognoli often deploying two narrow attackers either side of a centre forward and using the wing-backs for width, could Scotland’s wingers be squeezed out?
One of those forward places would surely be reserved for John McGinn, given his goal threat for Scotland, running power and experience of occupying a similar role on the left. He also offers more off the ball.
Ryan Christie might be another candidate for one of those roles, assuming Scotland only play two holding midfielders from their deep pool – Lewis Ferguson and Billy Gilmour. The Bournemouth midfielder is also relentless out of possession.
Could Gannon-Doak or McPake play further in the pitch closer to a striker? And do they have the defensive instincts to play more centrally when Scotland don’t have the ball?
Gannon-Doak was named as a forward in the squad, while McPake, interestingly, was named as a midfielder. Who knows if that means anything, but it will be fascinating to see what Pocognoli thinks.