Overview
- Steve Clarke named a 26-man Scotland squad for March friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast with no Motherwell players included.
- Jens Berthel Askou said the omissions were expected, noting Scotland's continuity before the World Cup and stylistic differences from his team.
- Motherwell are fourth in the Premiership with the fewest goals conceded, and several squad members have past senior or under-21 Scotland experience.
- Askou is targeting European qualification and says Scottish clubs must increase transfer revenues, highlighting Kieron Bowie's sale as an example.
- Ahead of facing Hibernian, Elijah Just is fit, Emmanuel Longelo serves a one-match ban, Stephen Welsh is available, and Motherwell hold a six-point lead over Hibs.