Che Adams named in Scotland squad for first time ahead of World Cup qualifiers

The Saints forward, who was born in England and represented the Three Lions at Under-20 level, previously rejected an approach from Scotland in 2019

Che Adams has been called up to the Scotland squad for the first time (Getty)

Southampton’s English-born striker Che Adams has been included in the Scotland squad for the first time ahead of this month’s World Cup qualifiers.

Steve Clarke’s side now has the 24-year-old available having previously rejected the call-up under Alex McLeish in 2019.

Adams has represented England at Under-20 level but is eligible to play for the Tartan Army through the grandparent rule.

The Saints star has seven goals and four assists in the Premier League under Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Clarke has spoken about the inclusion of Adams, but would not give too much detail on his plans to utilise the former Birmingham star.

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He said: “Hopefully Che Adams can give me something different up front.”

While Clarke explained the omission of Leigh Griffiths, who has struggled for game time with Celtic.

“I think for Leigh it’s well documented that he’s not getting much game time at Celtic,” Clarke added.

“I’ve spoken to all the boys who were in the last squad and not in this one, and they know what to expect and what to do to try and get back in the squads. Leigh is one of those players.”

Hibernian centre forward Kevin Nisbet, second top-scorer in the Scottish Premiership with 12 goals, also received his maiden Scotland call-up.

Steve Clarke’s Scotland host Austria on March 25, play away to Israel three days later and face the Faroe Islands at home on March 31.

Scotland squad

Goalkeepers: Gordon, Marshall, McLaughlin

Defenders: Considine, Gallagher, Hanley, Hendry, McKenna, O’Donnell, Palmer, Robertson, Taylor, Tierney

Midfielders: Armstrong, Christie, Fleck, Jack, McGinn, McGregor, McLean, McTominay

Forwards: Adams, Dykes, Fraser, McBurnie, Nisbet

PA contributed to this report