Gemmill pleased to see squad’s ability to adapt

Scot Gemmill believes Scotland Under-21s’ backto-back victories over San Marino and Croatia prove they have the ability to cope with varying styles.

Scotland head into today’s Euro 2021 qualifier against Lithuania at Tynecastle with maximum points in Group 4 after beating San Marino 2-0 at home and recording a 2-1 comeback victory in Croatia courtesy of Connor McLennan’s brace.

Gemmill was pleased with the adaptability shown during the last international break and thinks the two very different victories will stand his young players in good stead going forward.

He said: “Against San Marino we had more of the ball and were met by a resolute, organised side. We had to be patient.

“Then we took on Croatia and we had to show a different side.

“We faced a team who were very technical and clever on the ball, forcing us to show our organisation defensively.

“In essence, those two games were a great example of the value of international football for our young players.

“Going up against two very different sides, working on different elements of their game and playing in different environments all combine to offer valuable experience.”

After facing Lithuania, Scotland, who sit level on six points with group leaders Greece, will travel to face Czech Republic on Monday.

Scotland Under-19s were held to a 2-2 draw by Belarus in their opening Euro qualifier at Cappielow. Rangers pair Nathan Patterson and Dapo Mebude had given the hosts a 2-0 lead before the visitors fought back.

Scot Gemmill: “valuable experience”.