Steve Clarke has handed a surprise call-up to 19-year-old Kilmarnock winger Findlay Curtis for Scotland's upcoming international friendlies. The teenager, on loan from Rangers since January, joins an otherwise settled squad as Scotland prepares for their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Curtis impressed with 26 first-half appearances at Ibrox before moving to Kilmarnock.

Scotland faces Japan at Hampden on March 28 before meeting Ivory Coast five days later. The call-up comes amid injuries to Bournemouth's Ben Gannon-Doak and Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland. Wrexham defender Dominic Hyam and Middlesbrough forward Tommy Conway return to the squad, while Napoli duo Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay both feature as expected.

Everton right-back Nathan Patterson returns from injury after missing World Cup qualifying, with Rangers goalkeeper Liam Kelly also included. The squad shows Clarke's options remain limited in wide areas ahead of the World Cup finals. Curtis represents a chance for Scotland to evaluate fresh talent with their tournament campaign beginning next month.