Leanne Crichton has proposed on BBC Sportsound that Steve Clarke should consider Ryan Jack as a ‘really good’ asset for Scotland as the Rangers star offers a unique midfield aura.
Clarke offered Jack his first international minutes since November 2020 as the Tartan Army hosted Poland on Thursday. The 30-year-old featured for the final 13 minutes at Hampden Park as one of six substitutes used on the night, replacing Callum McGregor in the friendly.
Jack had not represented his country for 70 weeks after missing all five Scotland camps last year after suffering a calf injury in February. The blow kept the £12k-a-week technician out of action until November. But he only returned to a somewhat consistent role this January.
Jack has still only amassed 13 appearances across all competitions for Rangers this term, with the 11-cap Scotland star also only opening the action on eight occasions. Just seven of his appearances and three starts for 331 minutes have also come in Premiership games.
BBC pundit tips Ryan Jack as ‘really good’ Scotland asset as Rangers ace thrills
Jack’s year on the sidelines internationally has left the Rangers star facing a fight to regain his place in Clarke’s Scotland plans. But Crichton feels the Aberdeen native can still play a big role in the Tartan Army set-up as Clarke eyes qualification for the 2022 World Cup.
“Ryan Jack is the one midfielder who is a bit different to the rest,” Crichton said. “He reads the game so well, has such control, and almost sacrifices himself so others can play. He is very selfless. He would be a really good asset.”
Jack will hope to earn further minutes in Clarke’s engine room when Scotland visit Austria on Tuesday. He was one of the first midfielders on the Tartan Army teamsheet before the Gers star suffered his injury troubles. Now, he may have to prove why he still should be.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
