Preview & Prediction: Gibraltar vs Scotland

Scotland will be looking to end their disappointing Euro 2016 qualifying campaign with three points when they face Gibraltar, after a draw against Poland on Thursday meant that they cannot make the finals in France next summer.

Gordan Strachan’s side were leading 2-1 in stoppage time, but in-form striker Robert Lewandowski netted a late equaliser to ensure the Scots can’t even finish in the play-off spot.

The former Celtic manager has said there is “no time limit” on deciding his future, although the Scottish FA are keen for the 58-year-old to renew his contract for the upcoming 2018 World Cup qualifiers.

Scotland will surely feel that the 1-0 loss to Georgia last month was a result that has ultimately cost them, but they will want to finish their campaign on a high.

Their final match against UEFA’s newest member is being held in Portugal, but neither nation has been able to train on the Estadio Algarve pitch because of heavy rain in Faro, as UEFA don’t want the playing surface to be damaged any further than it already is.

Gibraltar have lost all nine of their games in this qualifying process, conceding 50 goals, and both of their strikes have come in fixtures away from home – against Scotland and Poland.

Five players have withdrawn from the visitors’ squad – Celtic duo Leigh Griffiths and Charlie Mulgrew, Premier League midfielders James McArthur and James Morrison, as well as Blackburn Rovers striker Jordan Rhodes.

Norwich midfielder Graham Dorrans was called up as a replacement for Wolves’ Kevin McDonald last week, and after coming on as a substitute against Poland, could start this one.

Meanwhile, uncapped Aberdeen defender Graeme Shinnie, who can also play in midfield, could get his first cap after being left out of the match day squad on Thursday.

Group Position: Gibraltar – 6th (0 points); Scotland – 4th (12 points)
Last Meeting: Scotland 6-1 Gibraltar (March 29, 2015)
Key Men: Gibraltar – Jake Gosling; Scotland – Matt Ritchie
Form: Gibraltar – LLLLLL; Scotland – WWDLLD
Shoot Says: Gibraltar 0-4 Scotland