We’re too far out from the important games to start passing judgment on how Alex McLeish’s second spell as Scotland boss is going to be.
For me, the first two games, the 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica and Tuesday’s game in Budapest, are about trying young and uncapped players.
On Friday, Alex capped five players for the first time – surely we were not expecting the end product or a magnificent team performance?
I’m a wee bit bewildered by some of the negativity which has been about.
He’s doing the right thing. The results and performance aren’t important in these two friendlies and, even if he loses both, it doesn’t matter.
If we see good team performances, which it wasn’t against Costa Rica, it’s a bonus.
What the game at Hampden told us was about individuals.
The players who played looked reasonably comfortable with three at the back.
Andy Robertson once again put in a top-quality performance, meaning the left-back position is sown up, even with Kieran Tierney injured.
Scott McKenna came into the team at centre-back and did extremely well.
In the midfield, there are still major question marks.
I didn’t think Kevin McDonald did particularly well, while Manchester United’s breakthrough central midfielder Scott McTominay was okay.
Oli McBurnie did extremely well for a young striker, but the supporting play from the likes of Tom Cairney and Matt Ritchie left a lot to be desired.
There were also the usual question marks over Callum Paterson’s defensive capabilities.
I don’t think there were too many positives, and the first half performance was that bad I think Alex will have them much more focused in other games. But, at this experimental stage, the gaffer only needs to find a few positives to make it a worthwhile exercise.
I’d like to see a good few changes – around 50% – for the Hungary game, as you’ve got to have a look at players.
Jon McLaughlin in goal, Ryan Christie, Kenny McLean, Ryan Fraser and John McGinn all need time in a dark blue shirt.
What Alex then has to do is decide on his go-to tactics and personnel for the next two games – away to both Peru and Mexico – before the UEFA Nations League starts in September.
Having so many games to build up to a competitive league of three – which contains two teams, in Albania and Israel, substantially below the Scots in the world rankings – is a fantastic opportunity for the new boss.
Topping that table come November has to be in Alex’s mind so his side can go into pot three for the Euro 2020 qualifying draw.
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