Rhodes backed to make impact

CRITICISING a centre-forward for rarely leaving the opposition penalty box could seem like castigating fish for refusing to come out of the sea. It is where they survive and thrive.

Jordan Rhodes, during the earlier part of his career, certainly, did little but score goals and might expect to be an asset most sides would love to have.

However, the feeling has lingered that the forward ought to be doing more.

With Scotland needing a win against Slovenia tonight to keep alive their slim chances of World Cup qualification, Rhodes’ nose for goals could prove pivotal.

And assistant manager Mark McGhee believes the man who is on loan at Sheffield Wednesday from Middlesbrough has become much more than a one-trick pony.

“I think the perception has been that he only comes alive in the penalty box and I think it has been our perception too,” McGhee said. “But I think, seeing him against Canada and in training, he looks to me a player that has developed and is doing much, much better. His play outside of the box is much improved.”

McGhee suggested there could be a debut for Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong. “I think he has a goal in him at the moment,” he said. “Since he has gone into the middle of the park he has blossomed.

“One thing Gordon [Strachan] will be looking for when he selects his team is people who are playing with positivity and confidence, self-belief and energy and he fits all of those.”