Scotland head coach Steve Clarke is set to announce his FIFA World Cup 2026 squad on Tuesday, ending weeks of anticipation for supporters who endured a 28-year wait to see their nation return to the global stage. Only 26 players will make the cut, and a handful of selection dilemmas remain to the last moment.

Stewart or McBurnie — or neither?

The forward line is where Clarke faces his most intriguing decisions. Southampton's Ross Stewart has forced his way back into contention with five goals in his last 10 appearances, including a notable strike in the Championship play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough. The 29-year-old last wore Scotland colours in 2022, but his current form has made him impossible to ignore.

Oli McBurnie, meanwhile, has delivered an equally compelling campaign for Hull City, scoring 18 goals in 41 appearances. The 29-year-old went as far as phoning Clarke directly to ask why he had been left out of previous squads — a bold move that speaks to his confidence in his own ability.

Both strikers' cases have been bolstered by an injury to Middlesbrough's Tommy Conway. The 22-year-old was forced off in tears during the 73rd minute of Boro's defeat to Southampton last week, and is widely expected to miss the tournament.

Curtis timing his run

Findlay Curtis has emerged as one of the most talked-about names heading into the announcement. The 19-year-old Kilmarnock winger earned his debut off the bench against Japan in Scotland's recent friendly double-header, and has since registered four goals in five post-split matches for Neil McCann's side.

Clarke was present at Rugby Park to witness Curtis's recent performances firsthand, and the teenager has attracted vocal support from pundits. Former Livingston manager Marvin Bartley stated he definitely should be included, while fellow Sportscene analyst Scott Allan acknowledged his unique value.