Overview
- Scotland manager Steve Clarke replaced Billy Gilmour after his knee injury in the pre‑tournament friendly with Tyler Fletcher under FIFA’s rule that allows injury substitutions before a team’s first match.
- Fletcher had been training with the senior squad and made his international debut as a substitute in Scotland’s 4-1 win over Curacao, performance that helped convince staff to select him.
- The call‑up came unexpectedly the morning after that match, with Fletcher travelling to the US training base with almost no luggage and having his boots sent to join the squad.
- Senior players Scott McTominay and Kenny McLean have been cited by Fletcher as key mentors as he settles into the squad and adapts to the tournament environment.
- A Manchester United academy graduate and son of former Scotland captain Darren Fletcher, the 19‑year‑old switched from England youth teams to Scotland and now provides fresh midfield depth and a high‑value development opportunity at the World Cup.