PERFECT VINTAGE

Beattie says 'fine wine' Shanks can fill void left by Dykes

- FRASER WILSON

CRAIG BEATTIE reckons "fine wine" Lawrence Shankland is ready to be uncorked against Germany.

Steve Clarke was dealt a major Euros headache at the weekend when striker Lyndon Dykes joined Scotland's list of casualties and was ruled out of the competition less than two weeks before the showpiece opener.

But, while Beattie feels the QPR hitman's pain, he reckons there's still plenty in reserve to keep the Tartan Army's spirits high with Shankland and Che Adams.

Hearts skipper Shankland is coming off a season that saw him bang in 32 goals for club and country to be named PFA Scotland and Scottish Sports

Writers' player of the year. But former Jambos and Celtic striker Beattie insists he's added far more to his game in terms of link-up and hold-up play two attributes that will be crucial against the hosts in Munich on June 14.

And Beattie, whose solitary goal for his country proved to be a last-minute winner in a Euro 2008 qualifier against Georgia, reckons Shankland will be ready to answer the call if given the nod.

He said: "Yeah.

Lawrence has been a bit of a fine wine to be honest.

"He has always been good for a goal.