Scotland Unveils Squad for World Cup Warm-Up Matches, Featuring Uncapped Winger Findlay Curtis

Findlay Curtis, a 19-year-old winger on loan at Kilmarnock from Rangers, has been named in Scotland's 26-man squad for the World Cup warm-up matches against Japan and the Ivory Coast. This marks a significant opportunity for Curtis, who has impressed in his six appearances for Kilmarnock since joining on loan in January. Scotland's squad also sees the return of goalkeeper Angus Gunn, who replaces the injured Craig Gordon, and the inclusion of Everton's Nathan Patterson and Dom Hyam of Wrexham in defense. Meanwhile, Ben Gannon Doak misses out due to a hamstring injury, and Sparta Prague's Andy Irving has been included in midfield. Middlesbrough's Tommy Conway also returns to the squad, while Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland is absent as he recovers from an injury. Scotland's game against Japan will be their first at Hampden Park since qualifying for the World Cup, and their friendly against the Ivory Coast will be the first meeting between the two teams. The squad is feeling optimistic about their chances, with assistant coach Steven Naismith expressing his confidence in the team's ability to progress beyond the group stages for the first time.