Steve Clarke’s surprise call‑up of Lewis Ferguson for crucial World Cup qualifiers
When Steve Clarke, Scotland manager announced a last‑minute change to his squad on 7 October 2025, the football world sat up straight. The 61‑year‑old coach, who has been at the helm since May 2019, named 25‑year‑old Lewis Ferguson as a replacement for the injured Matt O'Riley ahead of the decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches against Greece and Belarus. Scotland sit second in UEFA Group J, just two points behind leaders Portugal, and need at least four points from the final two games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Background to Scotland’s qualification campaign
Group J comprises twelve teams that have been battling home‑and‑away since March 2024. As of 6 October 2025, Scotland have gathered 14 points from eight fixtures, thanks to a solid defensive record – only three goals conceded at home. The campaign has been a roller‑coaster: after missing out on the 2022 World Cup, the Tartan Army have demanded a return to the finals, and the current financial model suggests a £2.5 million shortfall if the nation fails to qualify.
Clarke’s surprise call‑up
The coach delivered the news at a press conference held at the Scottish Football Association headquarters in Glasgow. "Lewis has been in outstanding form for Aberdeen FC, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 11 Championship appearances this season," Clarke said. "His versatility across the attacking midfield positions gives us vital cover after Matt's unfortunate injury. He's trained exceptionally well whenever called up and understands our tactical requirements."
Injury to Matt O'Riley
Brighton & Hove Albion’s promising Danish‑born midfielder, Matt O'Riley, suffered a grade‑2 right hamstring strain during a training session on 5 October 2025. Stewart Kerr, the SFA’s medical performance manager, confirmed the injury will keep him out for three to four weeks, ruling him out of both upcoming qualifiers.
Why Ferguson matters now
Ferguson, a Glasgow native, earned his first senior cap against Croatia on 8 June 2024 and has added two more since. His recent spell of form includes three straight goal‑scoring games – against QPR (20 Sept), Swansea City (24 Sept) and Middlesbrough (28 Sept). That streak has turned heads in the Press Association and among pundits, who argue his creative energy could be the spark Scotland need against the disciplined Greek side.
Implications for Scotland’s World Cup hopes
The first of the two matches will be played at Athens Olympic Stadium on 11 October 2025, kicking off at 19:45 EEST. A draw will keep the gap to Portugal at three points, but a loss could see the Scots slip to third, handing the playoff spot to a rival. The second fixture takes place at Borisov Arena on 14 October 2025, where a win could catapult Scotland back into contention for the direct qualification slot.
Beyond the on‑field stakes, the SFA’s financial forecasts underline the pressure: missing the tournament could shave roughly £2.5 million from the association’s revenue, affecting grassroots funding and player development programmes.
Looking ahead – what’s next?
Clarke’s 27‑man squad now features three goalkeepers, eight defenders, nine midfielders and seven forwards, with an average age of 26.3 years. Captain Andrew Robertson (Liverpool) and veteran keeper Craig Gordon (Heart of Midlothian) will lead the dressing room. The final group clash against Portugal is slated for 18 November 2025 at Estádio Algarve in Faro. If Scotland can secure at least a point in Athens, the November showdown could become a winner‑takes‑all affair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Lewis Ferguson’s inclusion affect Scotland’s attacking options?
Ferguson brings a blend of goal‑scoring instinct and creative passing that Scotland have missed since the departure of former talisman. His recent seven‑goal haul in the Championship shows he can finish chances, while his ability to drift between the central and wide midfield roles gives Clarke tactical flexibility against both Greece’s compact defense and Belarus’s counter‑attack style.
What are the stakes of the Greece match for Scotland’s World Cup campaign?
A draw in Athens keeps Scotland within three points of group‑topping Portugal and maintains a realistic path to the playoffs. A loss would likely drop the Scots to third place, handing the decisive playoff spot to either Denmark or Israel, depending on other results.
Why is Matt O'Riley’s injury a blow for the squad?
O'Riley had become Clarke’s go‑to option for linking play between the midfield and attack, especially against teams that press high. His hamstring injury removes a player who combined Premier League experience with a high work‑rate, forcing Clarke to reshuffle the midfield hierarchy just days before the qualifiers.
What financial impact could missing the World Cup have on Scottish football?
UEFA’s distribution model predicts roughly £2.5 million less in tournament‑related revenue for the SFA if the nation fails to qualify. Those funds usually support youth academies, community projects and stadium upgrades, so a shortfall could slow grassroots development across Scotland.
When is Scotland’s decisive match against Portugal?
The final group‑stage showdown is scheduled for 18 November 2025 at Estádio Algarve in Faro, Portugal. The result will determine whether Scotland head to the UEFA playoffs or watch the playoffs from the sidelines.
Man, Ferguson's form at Aberdeen has been solid and it feels right that Clarke gave him the nod. The lad’s versatility could really loosen up that Greek defence. I think the squad will appreciate his energy and fresh perspective. Let’s hope the chemistry clicks quickly – Scotland needs every ounce of creativity right now.