Ukraine in talks with France for pre Scotland friendly while World Cup playoff date hint emerges

Ukraine are set to face world champions France as they up their preparations ahead of for the huge World Cup qualifying play-off clash with Scotland.

And there's a hint that we might already know the date of the delayed tie with the war torn nation.

Ukrainian FA vice-president Oleg Protasov said negotiations over friendlies across Western Europe are well under way after boss Oleksandr Petrakov insisted earlier this month his side have no chance against Steve Clarke's side unless they play some games beforehand.

Protasov said: “We are looking for good training camps and opponents.

“We are currently in negotiations with some countries for training camps and matches against France and North Macedonia.

"Hopefully we will have more information a little later.

“We really believe we should not just play, but win in the play-offs for the 2022 World Cup so we need to prepare well.

“Our guys were in good shape and from our side we need to give them the opportunity to stay in such shape.”

Meanwhile Polish sports outlet Weszlo state that Poland's Nations League tie with Wales has been moved to June 1 from June 3.

It would make sense, then, for Scotland 's postponed play-off at Hampden to take place on the same day so that the victors have the same number of rest days as Wales for the final in Cardiff.

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