ITALIAN JOB HAS SCOTS BANKING ON SCOTT

In this series, The Straits Times highlights the standout players or teams to watch in the world of sport. Today, we focus on Scott McTominay, the man tasked with sparking Scotland's bid for a first World Cup Finals appearance since 1998.

- Andy Ng Correspondent

Napoli's 28-year-old midfielder Scott McTominay, who last season was named Serie A's Most Valuable Player, has also beer key for Scotland, scoring 11 goals in his last 21 competitive outings for Steve Clarke's side. PHOTO: REUTERS

(REUTERS)

Scotland are preparing to host Greece at Hampden Park on Oct 9 for a World Cup qualifier, and one player's meteoric rise has electrified the Tartan Army - Scott McTominay.

The 28-year-old midfielder, now thriving at Napoli after a summer 2024 move from Manchester United, embodies the revival story that could define Steve Clarke and his side's quest for a first World Cup Finals appearance since 1998.

In Group C alongside Denmark, Greece and Belarus, the Scots have four points from two away games, making this home doubleheader crucial they also welcome Belarus on Oct 12 - for maintaining momentum as they sit behind table-toppers Denmark on goal difference.

McTominay, with his blend of physicality, goalscoring instinct and renewed confidence, stands out as the player to watch, bringing his Serie A-honed edge to his national team.

His journey to this point began with a bold transfer in August 2024, when Napoli signed him from United for £25.7 million (S$44.7 million) - ending a 22-year association with the Red Devils, where he made his debut in 2017 and made over 250 appearances, winning the FA Cup and League Cup.

At United, McTominay was often a squad player, valued for his energy and late runs into the box but criticised for lacking consistency in possession and creativity in the middle of the park.

His best Premier League season yielded seven goals in 2023-24, and he scored only 29 times in 255 games overall for the Old Trafford club, according to transfermarkt.com.

The move to Italy, driven by McTominay's desire for regular football and United's need to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules, proved transformative.