Liverpool star gets Euros call-up despite absence

Liverpool starlet Ben Doak has earned a shock Scotland call-up to Steve Clarke's squad ahead of Euro 2024.

The 18-year-old has not featured for the Reds since December after suffering a meniscus tear but has been included in a 28-man provisional squad. Two players will be left at home when the Tartan Army make the trip to Germany and take on the competition hosts in the opening match of the tournament.

Doak appears to be a wildcard selection after making just six appearances for Liverpool's first team but he offers blistering pace. The uncapped star joined the Reds from Celtic in 2022.

While his inclusion offers a surprise, he was tipped to make the squad earlier in the season before his development was disrupted by injury. An impressive pre-season under Jurgen Klopp left many excited and the former Liverpool boss speechless.

In a 4-2 win over Karlsruher in July, Doak stole the show during a 45-minute second half outing and left his boss short of words. “Ben Doak, oh my God, it’s much fun to watch these kids," he said.

Doak made two senior appearances under Ange Postecoglou at Celtic before making his move to the Premier League, including a brief outing against Rangers while still 16. The youngster has since featured for Liverpool in England's top flight and the Europa League.

He is joined by teammate Andrew Robertson in Clarke's squad, while John McGinn, Ryan Christie and Billy Gilmour also earned call ups from the Premier League. A promising loan at Southampton for Ryan Fraser proved not to be enough as the former Newcastle and Bournemouth winger missed out.

Scotland squad Goalkeepers: Angus Gunn ( Norwich City ), Zander Clark (Hearts), Craig Gordon (Hearts), Liam Kelly (Motherwell).

Defenders: Andy Robertson (Liverpool), Kieran Tierney (Real Sociedad), Jack Hendry (Al Ettifaq), Ryan Porteous ( Watford ), Liam Cooper ( Leeds United ), Scott McKenna (FC Copenhagen), Grant Hanley (Norwich City), Greg Taylor (Celtic), John Souttar (Rangers), Anthony Ralston (Celtic), Ross McCrorie (Bristol City).

Midfielders: Callum McGregor (Celtic), Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Billy Gilmour ( Brighton & Hove Albion), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Scott McTominay ( Manchester United ), Stuart Armstrong (Southampton), Ryan Jack (Rangers).

Forwards: Lyndon Dykes (Queen's Park Rangers), Che Adams (Southampton), Lawrence Shankland (Hearts), Ben Doak (Liverpool), James Forrest (Celtic).