Adviser role 'noise Townsend could do without'

Scotland's upcoming World Cup qualifier against Greece is generating excitement, as BBC Scotland's chief sportswriter Tom English highlights the significance of this match. With the stakes high, fans are hoping for a thrilling performance that secures Scotland's place in the tournament. This game is crucial not just for the players but for the entire nation, as it represents a chance to showcase their talent on a global stage.

Max Johnston, the full-back from Derby County, has received a call-up to join the Scotland squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. This is an exciting opportunity for Johnston to showcase his skills on an international stage, and it highlights Scotland's commitment to bringing fresh talent into their team as they aim for success in the qualifiers.

With Stanislav Lobotka sidelined for at least three weeks, Billy Gilmour is set to seize his opportunity to start for Napoli. This is significant not only for Gilmour's career but also for Napoli as they look to maintain their competitive edge in Serie A. Fans are eager to see how Gilmour will perform in this crucial role.

Several Hibs players are making headlines as they join their national teams for crucial World Cup qualifying matches. Grant Hanley and Kieron Bowie are set to represent Scotland against Greece and Belarus, while Miguel Chaiwa will play for Zambia against Tanzania and Niger. Additionally, Thibault Klidje is with Togo for their matches against the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. This is significant as it highlights the talent within Hibs and their contribution to international football, showcasing the club's ability to develop players who can compete on a global stage.

In a significant move for the sport, eight major rugby nations have come together to announce international bans on players who choose to join the breakaway R360 series. This decision highlights the unity among traditional rugby powers like England, Ireland, and New Zealand, urging players to consider the implications of joining a rebel organization. By taking a stand, these nations aim to protect the integrity of rugby and ensure that players remain committed to the established framework of the sport, which is crucial for its future.

In a significant move, England and seven other major rugby nations have announced a ban on players who join the controversial R360 league. This decision, which includes countries like Ireland, Scotland, and France, aims to protect the integrity of international rugby by ensuring that those who participate in the rebel league will not be eligible for international matches. This matters because it highlights the ongoing tensions within the sport and the efforts of traditional unions to maintain control over their players amidst rising competition from alternative leagues.

Lawrence Shankland is keeping his hopes alive for a Scotland recall as the national team gears up for their European qualifying matches against Greece and Belarus. Despite not being included in the current squad, Shankland remains optimistic about his World Cup aspirations. He recently received the Scottish Premiership Player of the Month award, showcasing his talent and determination. This story matters because it highlights the competitive nature of national team selections and the drive of players to represent their country on the world stage.

Kenny McLean is optimistic about Scotland's chances in the World Cup qualifying matches against Greece and Belarus. He believes that someone from the squad will step up as a 'hero' during this crucial time. After starting the campaign with a draw against Denmark and a solid win over Belarus, the team is in a favorable position. McLean emphasizes that qualifying for the finals in the USA, Canada, and Mexico would be a significant achievement in his career, making these upcoming matches even more important for the players and fans alike.

Steve Clarke is on the verge of becoming the longest-serving head coach for Scotland, marking a significant milestone in his six-year tenure. This achievement highlights his impact on the national team and the progress made under his leadership, making it a noteworthy moment for Scottish football fans.

Scott Bain is optimistic about a potential recall to the Scotland national team as he enjoys regular play with Falkirk after moving from Celtic. With Scotland's goalkeeping situation being a concern due to the current options not getting enough game time, Bain's ambition could align with the team's needs. His enthusiasm and performance could make him a strong candidate for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, highlighting the importance of having players in form.

Scotland is set to host Greece in an important World Cup qualifier this Thursday, and fans can catch all the action live on BBC. This match is crucial for Scotland's chances of advancing in the tournament, making it a must-watch for supporters. With the stakes high, the excitement is palpable as both teams aim for victory.

In a thought-provoking piece, readers are invited to step into the role of Scotland's head coach, Steve Clarke, and make crucial decisions regarding team selection and tactics. This interactive approach not only engages fans but also highlights the complexities of coaching at a national level. Understanding the strategies and mindset behind team management is essential for appreciating the challenges faced by coaches like Clarke.

Week 6 of fantasy football is shaping up to be exciting for wide receiver choices, especially with top players like Justin Jefferson and Nico Collins on bye. This opens the door for lesser-known receivers to step up and make an impact. Managers need to focus on matchups to find hidden gems while steering clear of the obvious picks. It's a great opportunity to gain an edge in your league.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between Australia and Pakistan is underway at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, and the weather is perfect for cricket. With play starting at 10:30 am BST, fans are excited to see how the teams perform. This match is significant as it showcases women's cricket on a global stage, promoting the sport and inspiring future generations of female athletes.

The competition among the top scorers in the 2025-26 season is heating up, with Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé leading the charge. As fans eagerly follow the race for the podium, this weekly update highlights the players' impressive performances and the excitement surrounding the major leagues. It's a thrilling time for football enthusiasts as every goal and assist counts towards the ultimate glory.

FC Barcelona is making headlines with plans for three blockbuster signings, showcasing their ambition to strengthen the team despite the recent closure of the summer transfer window. This move is significant as it reflects the club's commitment to competing at the highest level and attracting top talent, which could energize fans and enhance their performance in upcoming seasons.

Watford has made a significant coaching change by sacking Paulo Pezzolano after only 10 games and reappointing Javi Gracia as head coach. This decision highlights the club's urgency to improve performance in the Championship, as they seek to regain stability and success. Fans will be watching closely to see if Gracia can turn the team's fortunes around.

The Cincinnati Bengals recently explored their options for available quarterbacks over a 48-hour period before ultimately deciding to trade for Joe Flacco. Interestingly, they did not reach out to the New York Giants regarding Russell Wilson or Jameis Winston. This decision highlights the Bengals' strategy in addressing their quarterback needs and could impact their performance moving forward.