Ryan Kent to Celtic sets Hotline on fire as mischief ensues over Rangers hero changing allegiances

Steve Clarke left it late to play his king of Hearts in Georgia. But Lawrence Shankland’s introduction came up trumps for Scotland with his injury time goal earning a draw to end a run of three straight defeats ahead of Sunday’s final Euro qualifier against Norway.

Tartan Army foot-soldiers on the Hotline reckon the Tynecastle striker - forever linked with Rangers - has proved his worth and should be handed start at Hampden. David Kirkpatrick, Glasgow, said: “What an impact from Shankland. I had a feeling when he came on that he was going to rescue the draw even if there was only a few minutes left. He’s bang in form and when he’s on a run like this then he’s the best finisher Scotland have. Surely Clarke starts him against Norway?”

And Davy Cook, Restalrig, added: “Hearts should lay out the red carpet for Shankland and offer him a massive new deal instead of giving Rangers a chance to steal another penalty from Hearts. Well done on the Scotland goal Shanks.” Qualifying for Germany in record time has raised belief in Clarke’s squad that they can take the next step and get through the group stage. But John Allardyce, Edinburgh, said: “Stuart Armstrong is kidding himself on like most Scotland players these days. He has not seen the draw yet but bullishly says the Scots can reach the knockout stages in Germany. Aye right, they can't even beat Georgia. Dream on.”

The game in Georgia also marked Clarke’s 50th as Scotland boss. Only three others have hit that milestone - Jock Stein, Andy Roxburgh and Craig Brown. But Bill Lockerbie, Northampton, said: “Scottish football has reached a new level of mediocrity when Steve Clarke is being compared with Jock Stein. Perhaps national team statistics show a near comparison to the