The primary goal of this international break will be to avoid coming last in Nations League A Group 1, after which they will examine their options for other positions in the four-team standings. At Ibrox, Scotland coaches saw Shankland, and Carver was left feeling optimistic.

He thinks the foundation for hope has been laid by his all-around performance. Carver clarified: “We had Chris Woods and Alan Irvine at the Rangers game over the weekend, and they returned and said that his all-around performance meant that the only thing lacking was a goal. He would have gone a little deeper and was making an effort to participate in the game, but his performance over the weekend was excellent, so that was promising.

Carver went on to say: “We understand his situation. I’ve watched every game, including the one against Omonia because it was my former team, and he had a few chances. Listen, when you’re a good player and a goal scorer, eventually that lull comes, and he’s surrounded by good people who support him. Sometimes it’s a little comfort to leave a bad situation because you’re in a different setting.

We’re all aware of his intentions. He scores goals, he plays inside the 18-yard box, and he gets between the posts. If he must play for us, start, or come on, we want him to do that, and we’ll support him in doing so.

“Everyone is fully behind Lawrence because it’s simply not falling off of him the way it did last season and the season before that. The players around him are aware of how much we adore him. Dyksey and Tommy Conway, a rookie player who has just begun his career, are both present, and everyone has been encouraging.

Before training, they actually sit next to one another in the dressing room, which is positive and upbeat. I had a nice conversation with Lawrence on Tuesday morning, and he will be alright.

Scotland has a remote chance of placing second in the division they are in. However, he hasn’t spoken to the organisation about it directly. Carver went on: “We haven’t stated

We must rely on events beyond of our control, but I believe the most crucial thing is that we concentrate on our goals, make sure we are as prepared as possible, and attempt to earn the three points we so need in the opening game.

“We might place fourth! However, as a team of players and personnel, are you stating that, in spite of the summer’s disappointment and the club’s difficult run, they can finish the season with two wins and declare that this would be a good year-end? Of course.

Our performance has historically been strong at this time of year, so there’s no reason why it shouldn’t happen now. We’re confident, we’re in a fantastic position right now, and as I mentioned before, we have some of our Premier League players back in, which is significant. However, I believe the most important thing is that we get something out of the first game and then see where the second game takes us.

“I think the performances may give us encouragement, and we’re in a nice position where we have two games left and everything is still up for grabs. It’s a fact that we ought to be sitting here with more points. Thus, I believe there is confidence.