GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – Rangers loanee Findlay Curtis has received a surprising but deserved call-up to the Scotland national team for their upcoming international friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast. The 19-year-old winger, currently impressing at Kilmarnock, is the only uncapped player named in Steve Clarke’s squad as the Scots prepare for a crucial summer that includes participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Curtis, who joined Kilmarnock on loan from Rangers in January, has quickly become a key figure for Neil McCann’s side. His performances have clearly caught the eye of national team manager Clarke, who is looking to integrate fresh talent ahead of the tournament in North America. The inclusion of the young winger signals Clarke’s intent to assess potential options and build squad depth as Scotland aims to produce a mark on the world stage.
A Dream Realized for the Young Winger
The news was understandably emotional for Curtis and his family. Speaking to Kilmarnock’s official television channel (via BBC Sport), Curtis described the moment he found out about his inclusion in the squad. “It’s unbelievable. I didn’t expect it at such a young age, but it’s a dream arrive true,” he said. He recounted a phone call from manager Neil McCann, followed by an emotional reaction from his parents. “I got a call from the gaffer saying I was in consideration and I was just sitting there thinking, ‘This is mental.’ When he confirmed I was in, I told my mum and dad, and my mum started crying. It’s huge.”
Clarke Looks to the Future
Steve Clarke’s decision to include Curtis reflects a broader strategy of evaluating emerging talent. According to recent reports, Clarke stated he still has “players I sense I demand to have a seem at” within his current selection (BBC Sport). With the World Cup fast approaching – Clarke noted “a lot can change in the final 10 weeks” – the friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast provide a valuable opportunity to experiment and assess players in a competitive environment. The Scotland manager also highlighted a “natural evolution” within his squad, suggesting a willingness to embrace new faces and ideas.
Curtis isn’t the only new addition to the squad. Udinese’s Lennon Miller also received a call-up, further demonstrating Clarke’s commitment to bringing through the next generation of Scottish talent. The squad also sees the return of Dominic Hyam (Wrexham) and Tommy Conway (Middlesbrough), while Everton’s Nathan Patterson and Napoli’s Billy Gilmour are back from injury.
Opportunity Knocks at Hampden Park
The timing of Curtis’s call-up is particularly significant given the absence of Lawrence Shankland through injury. This creates an opportunity for the young winger to potentially earn his first senior cap when Scotland host Japan at Hampden Park on March 28th. He will then have another chance to impress against Ivory Coast at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on March 31st.
Curtis’s ability to “make things happen” – as described by Clarke (BBC Sport) – and his direct style of play could prove valuable for Scotland. Clarke was impressed by Curtis’s performance against Hearts on Saturday night, stating he “thought he was decent” in the match. This recent form, combined with his versatility – he’s recently featured at wing-back – likely contributed to his selection.
Scotland’s World Cup Preparations
Beyond the friendlies, Scotland is finalizing preparations for their World Cup base. The squad will utilize Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as a pre-tournament training camp before relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, for their main base. Clarke is eager to gauge “how we stand on the world stage” as his team prepares to compete against the best national teams in the world.
The inclusion of Curtis, alongside other emerging talents, suggests Clarke is building a squad capable of challenging at the highest level. While the 2026 World Cup represents a significant challenge, the manager appears confident in his team’s ability to compete and make a lasting impression. The upcoming friendlies will be a crucial step in that process, providing valuable experience and insight as Scotland prepares for the biggest tournament in international football.
Scotland will face Japan on March 28th at Hampden Park (19:45 GMT) and Ivory Coast on March 31st at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton (19:45 GMT). Fans eager to follow the team’s progress can find the latest updates on the Scottish Football Association’s official website.
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