LEVEIN BACKS DYKES TO START FOR SCOTLAND

Craig Levein insists defeat to Denmark has highlighted how important Lyndon Dykes is to Scotland.

The QPR striker was left on the bench by Steve Clarke in Copenhagen but was introduced at half-time to help spark a mini-revival in the 2-0 defeat.

Former Dundee United and Scotland boss Levein believes the improvement in the Scots after the break was an indication the former Livingston player was sorely missed in the first 45 minutes.

Dykes has his critics but the former Scotland and Hearts manager is convinced the 25-yearold has been key to Scotland’s previous success under Clarke.

He said: “We have to realise what we are, and in the lead up to the (Euro 2020) qualification there were a lot of games where we crossed the ball a lot.

“And our switches of play were good; we had developed the situation with (Kieran) Tierney and (Andy) Robertson down the left-hand side that was a threat.

“But we need someone in the middle to head the ball.

“And we also need somebody who, when our defenders are stuck, they can go long to.

“So, I would suggest that Dykes is quite an important player for us.”

Former Scotland striker Kenny Miller admits Scotland need maximum points from their next two games to stay in the hunt for World Cup qualification

The former Rangers and Dundee forward said: “It’s going to be an uphill struggle. There’s no doubt that the game against Moldova at the weekend is a must-win.

“And, then, the game against Austria away next week becomes crucial because you’re going to be fighting with Austria.

“Denmark look like they’re surging towards top spot, so it’s that one spot that’s going to be left.

“So, the game against Austria is going to be an absolutely massive game.”