Scotland boss Gordon Strachan spoiled for choice at left back

Strachan has options at left back (Andrew Cawley / DC Thomson)

SCOTLAND manager Gordon Strachan described the performances of his left-back trio in training ahead of the World Cup clash with Lithuania as the most impressive he has ever seen.

Strachan has the option of sticking with Hull’s Andy Robertson or going with Rangers skipper Lee Wallace or Celtic teenager Kieran Tierney for Saturday’s Hampden qualifier.

The latter two pulled out of the opening victory over Malta through injury but, with Slovakia to come on Tuesday in Trnava, Strachan might look to freshen his team up at some stage over the double header.

“Some of the areas we are very strong, some I’d like to be stronger,” Strachan said at his Hampden media conference.

“But areas we have not got a problem is the mental strength, that was proved in the last game. Areas we are happy with is their passion and commitment, we have got that as well.

“Areas on the park, left-back, incredible. Those three this week, as good as I have seen, those three in training, for one position.

“We have people playing well, people not getting a game for their club, that’s a factor, but we still think they’re good players.”

Lithuania have travelled to Scotland on the back of a 2-2 draw with Sloveniabut they were two up until tiring late in the game and also held Poland to adraw in a recent friendly.

Former Hearts striker Edgaras Jankauskas has adopted a more positive tactical approach since taking over the national team in January and Strachan expects an attacking challenge from the visitors.

“I was impressed with Lithuania in their last two games,” Strachan said.

“They are a real hard-working side, a bit different from years ago when teams a pot below you would come and sit in. They are quite prepared to push out and close you down and win the ball back. So it should be an interesting game.”

Gordon Strachan explains his Scotland squad selection for Lithuania and Slovakia qualifiers