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Scotland’s ambitions for the 2026 World Cup are being carried on the shoulders of their midfield dynamo, Scott McTominay.

While Steve Clarke’s squad features a host of key contributors who played vital roles in securing qualification for this summer’s World Cup, McTominay’s influence remains unmatched. His teammates themselves reportedly grew concerned earlier this week when the Manchester United midfielder was struck by a stomach bug, just days before their Group C opener against Haiti.

Despite initial worries, the mood in the Scotland camp has lifted considerably after Clarke confirmed that McTominay has fully recovered from his illness. The manager revealed during his pre-match press conference that the 27-year-old had returned to full training on Friday and was now in “perfect” condition ahead of the fixture at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, United States.

Clarke assured supporters that McTominay would be “ready to go” for the crucial encounter. His recovery comes as a significant boost for the Tartan Army, with the midfielder set to start alongside Aston Villa’s John McGinn in the centre of the park.

Ranked number seven in FourFourTwo’s list of the best attacking midfielders in the world, McTominay has netted 15 goals in 70 appearances for Scotland. He will be eager to add to that tally when he faces a Haiti side viewed as underdogs in the group stage.

Clarke’s only selection concern ahead of the Haiti clash is defender Scott McKenna, who remains sidelined with a calf injury. Providing an update, Clarke commented, “He’s had an issue with his calf, he’s almost there and will probably train Monday.”

With McTominay now declared fit and firing, Clarke and his men will hope the midfielder can once again deliver a talismanic performance to guide Scotland to victory. Supporters will be watching closely to see if he can make the difference in their World Cup opener.