Billy Gilmour tests positive for Covid: Who will replace him in Scotland's midfield vs Czech Republic?

Scotland midfielder Billy Gilmour has been ruled out of Tuesday night’s vital Euro 2020 group stage clash against Croatia after returning a positive Covid-19 test.

The Chelsea starlet put in a man of the match performance in Friday’s 0-0 draw against England at Wembley, but news broke on Monday that he is set to undergo a period of isolation after contracting the virus – much to the disappointment of hopeful Scottish supporters.

A statement from the SFA said: "The Scottish FA can confirm that a member of the Scotland national team playing squad, Billy Gilmour, has tested positive for Covid-19.

"Having liaised with Public Health England since the positive test was recorded, Billy will now self-isolate for 10 days and therefore miss tomorrow's Uefa Euro 2020 Group D match against Croatia at Hampden."

But who will Tartan Army boss Steve Clarke call upon to replace the 20-year-old in the centre of the park?

We’ve taken a look at some of the possible options below…

Scott McTominay

The Manchester United man started Scotland’s opener against the Czech Republic in the heart of midfield, before being dropped back into the centre of defence at Wembley.

McTominay generally occupies a spot in the engine room at Old Trafford, but will Clarke be willing to compromise some of the defensive solidity that his presence at the back brought against England?

Stuart Armstrong

Benched against England, the Southampton man is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s finest talents on his day, and it could well be that Clarke looks to bring him back into midfield on Tuesday night.

With 26 caps to his name, the 29-year-old's experience could be a useful asset in such a crucial match.

John Fleck

The Sheffield United talent has fallen down the pecking order a little with the Tartan Army in recent times, and he’s still yet to feature at Euro 2020.

If Clarke is looking for a more combative option to come into the side, however, he could get the nod.

David Turnbull

One of the biggest blows that Gilmour’s absence will bring is undoubtedly the impact it will have on Scotland’s creativity in central areas.

Turnbull is another player who possesses a real spark on the ball, albeit from a slightly more advanced position.

There’s no reason why Clarke couldn’t drop Celtic teammate Callum McGregor into a deep-lying role, however, opening up space for him to slot the 21-year-old in alongside John McGinn further forward.