Does the cap fit? Andrew Smith assesses Scotland’s seven new boys

JAMIE MURPHY

The winger’s contribution extended only to a three-minute substitute appearance at the end of the ill-starred Costa Rica defeat. The 28-year-old, left, expected to join Rangers after his loan deal from Brighton expires at the end of the season, will surely be given another opportunity to shine.

SCOTT MCKENNA

Unquestionably the pick of the newbies, the Aberdeen centre-back was the only outfield performer to play every minute of the friendlies with Costa Rica and Hungary. The 22-year-old did so because he appeared utterly at home in the environment, exhibiting the sort of presence, pace and poise that Scotland have been crying out for in central defence. His ability to step up in such fashion, with less than a season of top-flight football under his belt, must excite Alex Mcleish as it hints at the promise of much more to come.

OLI MCBURNIE

The Swansea City striker, on loan at Barnsley, is rawer than a rare steak but showed pluck and drive against Costa Rica, suggesting the 21-year-old, left, will make the plane for the end-of-season friendlies against Peru and Mexico. Unfortunate not to score during his 58-minute run-out against Costa Rica. Considering Scotland’s paucity of strikers will be worth persevering with if he can continue to score goals at club level as he has since his January loan move.

JACK HENDRY

The real surprise package proved an eminently pleasant one. The recent Celtic recruit stood up to a real physical examination in Hungary and believes his readiness for the stage is all down to the progress he has made since his £1.5m move from Dundee two months ago. Concern may be how much game time he receives at the Scottish champions.

SCOTT MCTOMINAY

The fanfare over the Manchester United midfielder choosing Scotland over his native England meant he was burdened by expectation on his debut against Costa Rica. That may have been a factor in it not happening against the South Americans for the 21-year-old, left, who has become a important player for Jose Mourinho. His injury withdrawal from the trip to Hungary led to unfair questions over

his commitment.

BARRY DOUGLAS

A three-minute substitute outing in the win over Hungary precludes judgements of the Wolves full-back’s possibilities for his country. An outstanding club season which looks set to bring promotion to the Premier League should keep the 28-year-old, right, in the Scotland reckoning.

KEVIN MCDONALD

The 29-year-old had waited for what seemed like forever to earn a first Scotland senior cap. Pity then that he failed to deliver on his big moment. His performanceagainst costa rica–which followed his being talked up by Alex Mcleish – sadly seemed a contributory element in in the ponderous nature of Scotland’s play. Mcdonald, right, may struggle to avoid returning to the fringes of the squad .