Kieran Tierney blow opens door to opportunity as Scotland hero ranks Steven Clarke's back three options for Ukraine

Scotland's defensive unit has been disrupted by the loss of Kieran Tierney for the upcoming World Cup semi-final play-off with Ukraine but who's going to step in for the Arsenal star.

Former dark blue's hero Steven Pressley has assessed boss Steve Clarke's preferred three at the back formation and potential candidates for Tierney's usual left sided role.

The 32-time capped Hearts legend makes a few surprise admissions over his first picks for the Hampden showdown on June 1st before hopefully facing Wales in Cardiff on 5 June for a place at the World Cup in Qatar.

Scotland will confront three Nations League matches, with a trip to take on the Republic of Ireland in between home and away games against Armenia.

Pressley is currently Head of Individual Development at Brentford and he told Record Sport his three-at-the back preference practically picks itself.

"I watched Scott live recently when Manchester United played at our stadium and he operated in a midfield position that day.

"He was probably the best performer in their team, he was outstanding. I appreciate he's very adaptable but I feel his strongest position is without doubt in the middle of the pitch. That's where his talents are best served.

"I like players to play their positions and that may sound simplistic; they can be adaptable when required.

"McTominay can go box to box and be a huge influence as a ball winner so I'd have him in the middle as we have enough options at the back to not require him to drop back.

"There is more than enough quality in terms of the back-up for Tierney and one of the most important parts of fielding any team and formation is balance.

"Whoever plays in Tierney's role has to be left sided, whether it's a back three or four,