Shake on it /Phillips set for striker role

0 Matt Phillips, with Malky Mackay yesterday, could be leading the line against the Netherlands. Jason Cummings may have to wait to make his international debut, with Matt Phillips set to lead the line for Scotland against the Netherlands at Pittodrie on Thursday, writes Alan Pattullo.

Interim manager Malky Mackay has been left with a dearth of forwards following Leigh Griffiths’ withdrawal due to a calf injury.

Only three forwards were listed in a 24-man squad selected by Mackay – Cummings, Griffiths and Ryan Christie, who more often plays in an advanced midfield role for Aberdeen. The interim manager is considering using Phillips – who has earned his eight caps to date on the wing – through the middle in the friendly against Dick Advocaat’s side.

The West Bromwich Albion player has had fleeting experience as a striker for his present club and at previous side Queens Park Rangers.

Cummings is likely to taste Scotland action for the first time as a substitute providing injury does not impact on Mackay’s plans this week.

The 22 year-old proved to be a typically colourful interviewee at Scotland’s base at Dalmahoy, outside Edinburgh, yesterday. However, Mackay is displaying caution with someone who is still establishing himself at club level at Nottingham Forest following his summer move from Hibernian.

Cummings was an unused sub in Forest’s 4-0 win over Queens Park Rangers on Saturday after starting their previous seven games, scoring once. Mackay described someone still getting used to unfamiliar surroundings