EXCLUSIVE: Pat Nevin Urges Scotland to ‘Have a Right Go’ Against Germany in EURO Opener

Pat Nevin, at 60, believes Scotland’s squad is ready to challenge top-tier nations at Euro 2024. Steve Clarke’s team aims to build on an impressive qualifying campaign and make a deep run in the tournament. Nevin, who was part of Scotland’s Euro 1992 squad, earned 28 caps over his 10-year international career.

In the 1990s, Scotland appeared in four major tournaments, but since the 2000s, they’ve qualified for just one. Looking to improve on their Euro 2020 group-stage exit, Nevin sees the opener against hosts Germany as a prime opportunity to make a statement, with the pressure squarely on Julian Nagelsmann’s team.

Speaking before the match, Nevin told Flashscore, “Scotland has nothing to worry about. Expectations are low for the first game, but Germany, despite being a mighty nation and the home team, are not the formidable squads of the past. We should have a right go at them, believe in ourselves, and that’s what Steve Clarke will instill in the team. Scotland proved in qualifying they can take big scalps, and this game is another chance to start the campaign strong.”

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Scotland’s Recent Form

Several Scotland players bring significant experience, including Liverpool’s Andy Robertson, Manchester United’s Scott McTominay, and Aston Villa’s John McGinn. Nevin emphasizes that the quality throughout Clarke’s 26-man squad could be crucial for progressing to the knockout stages.

“Since 1998, Scotland has had good players, but in terms of depth, this squad is the best we’ve had,” Nevin stated. “The core of Premier League players and the squad depth is unmatched. They’re peaking now, and this could be the best chance to get out of the group stage.”

While the Germany clash is daunting, the Tartan Army can draw confidence from their qualifying victories against Spain and Norway. Nevin highlights that dealing with the atmosphere and intensity will be a unique challenge but believes Scotland can manage it.

“Tactically, Steve Clarke is among the best. The team trusts him, and players like McGinn, Robertson, and McTominay won’t be intimidated. Scotland must be aggressive but not reckless, similar to their best moments in qualifying. The 2-0 win against Spain and strong performances against Norway show what they’re capable of,” Nevin explained.

Midfield Strength

Nevin also points out Scotland’s midfield as a key strength, praising Celtic’s Callum McGregor and Brighton’s Billy Gilmour. “For Scotland to do well, we need to keep possession. McGregor and Gilmour are brilliant at this. They might not be the most physically imposing, but their ability to maintain possession is crucial. This will allow players like Robertson and Tierney to create chances.”

Group A Fixtures

Scotland’s group stage fixtures for EURO 2024 are:

• 14.06.2024 – Germany vs Scotland – Munich
• 19.06.2024 – Scotland vs Switzerland – Cologne
• 23.06.2024 – Scotland vs Hungary – Stuttgart

Nevin hopes Scotland will heed his advice and assert themselves early in Group A. With 16 of the 24 teams advancing to the knockout round, Clarke’s men have a strong chance to make it out of the group stages for the first time in history.