Scotland’s Nations League campaign is expected to pick up steam this month with matches against Croatia and Portugal.

During the most recent international break, the Scots were defeated by Poland and the Portuguese, and they currently have no points in Group A1.

But now that the Hearts custodian has recovered from his injury and is back to playing regularly for the Tynecastle team, Steve Clarke has turned to Craig Gordon to help him turn around.

Sitting on 75 caps, Gordon could have the opportunity to increase to his record after his call up and speaking after the announcement, Clarke shared the pledge the Hearts man made to him after his last appearance against Finland

Clarke’s ‘hats off’ to Craig Gordon

Gordon was the star of the July 2-2 draw with the Fins, and even though he hasn’t been included in a squad since, Steve Clarke has revealed what the Hearts player said to him following the final whistle at Hampden.

According to Clarke’s statement to The Courier [print edition, page 46], Craig fulfilled his promise to him by telling him that the Finland game was not a farewell and that he would see him again in the future.

He’s demonstrated tenacity. His goal is to play for as long as possible, and he is a competent professional. Bravo to Craig. I can’t wait to see him once more.

Gordon could be crucial for Scotland

There is no doubt Gordon will be looking to win back his starting spot from current Scotland number one, Angus Gunn.

As Clarke’s team begins a record of just one victory in their previous 13 games, Norwich’s goalkeeper has given up 18 goals in his last eight starts for Scotland.

Scotland’s survival in Pot A and the halting of the current run of bad results for the national side will depend on their performance in the next two games.