TRIPLE WHAMMY

Dodds: Shanks gives us extra threat to add to duo's weapons

- CRAIG SWAN

BILLY DODDS reckons the extra ingredient of lethal Lawrence Shankland provides Scotland with a potent striking cocktail. 

The ex-international hitman is delighted at the trio of varied attacking talents heading into the double-header against Holland and Northern Ireland.

Steve Clarke has named three out-and-out frontmen as he plans for Euro 2024 with Dodds a big fan of established duo Che Adams and Lyndon Dykes.

The English-based pair have long proven their credentials at the highest level with running power, physicality and goals.

Hearts ace Shankland joins them to make a three-way spearhead with outstanding finishing earning his place. The Tynecastle skipper proved his worth with a vital goal against Georgia during the last camp and Dodds, with seven goals in 26 appearances for Scotland, loves the way Shankland has battled for his spot to supplement join the established duo.

Dodds said: “He’s pushed his way into the squad because he wasn’t named initially for that game against Georgia and suddenly he gets in there, scores and does well.

“I love players who travel a journey, if you want to put it like that – players who in adversity of being left out think, ‘I’ll show them’ and he’s given them plenty of food for thought. Now, the way Scotland play, he’s a brilliant addition if we are maybe behind in a game because we could throw him on.

“Maybe the manager now looks at it and thinks, ‘Okay, I’ve had two in Adams and Dykes who have done us proud in the past, done well, got us to the Euros and got us big results’.