Ryan Jack is a leading figure at Rangers - but his anchoring of the Scotland midfield against Cyprus has left the pundits split prior to facing Spain.
The midfielder was comfortable alongside Callum McGregor as Steve Clarke's side beat the Cypriots 3-0 in their Euro 2024 qualification opener. He has been a key man for Michael Beale since his return at Ibrox, and he's keen to continue working with him as his contract ticks down to its summer expiry date.
Beale said earlier this month that Jack 'sets the standard for us' when it comes to his Ibrox changing room but former Scotland goalkeeper Alan Rough isn't so sure about him lining up against Spain on Tuesday. He doesn't buy into the hype, amid the glowing praise from those around the experienced midfielder. Asked if there were any performances that disappointed him against Cyprus, Rough told PLZ : "If I was going to be picky a wee bit, probably the Rangers boy Jack. I don't think he does enough in the game.
"When you're playing against Spain you might want somebody like that (defensive). For playing against team like Cyprus I think you want somebody making they runs like McGinn and Armstrong, somebody else.
"You're not going to be backs to the wall against Cyprus. He didn't have a bad game I just think there should be somebody out there maybe a wee bit better."
Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday spoke on Clyde 1, and wouldn't be surprised if Jack remained in the XI with no changes at all from the Cyprus stroll. He explained: "It is difficult but I don't think Steve Clarke will have huge headache selections.
"I thought the balance between McGregor, McGinn and Jack was really good. I think Steve Clarke mentioned that Scotland will need to be really patient without the ball and I think Ryan Jack and Callum McGregor showed composure when they had to, I wouldn't be disappointed to see the same 11 with Lyndon Dykes coming in for Che Adams but I also wouldn't be surprised to see Scott McTominay come in."
Record Sport columnist Tam McManus meanwhile notes the performance of Scott McTominay from the bench. Manchester United's Scotsman scord twice after replacing Jack and he's given the nod instead.
McManus added on PLZ: "I would play McTominay before Jack, I just think he's a better player. He's come on and scored two goals, I think he's more of a goal threat, it depends what Scotland are going to play.
"Is he going to sit back defensively and go on the counter? If he does and plays quite negative, I think he'll play Jack but if he wants to go and try and win the game, he plays McTominay."
