Tough tests targeted for new-look U21 squad

Boss Scot Gemmill will target tough tests for his new-look Scotland Under-21 side.

The 45-year-old former Nottingham Forest and Everton midfielder took over from Ricky Sbragia in September after a 4-0 defeat in Ukraine ended qualification hopes for Euro 2017.

Gemmill, who stepped up from overseeing Scotland’s under-17 and under-19 teams, lost to Iceland and Macedonia in the final two Group Three fixtures with a revamped squad.

Scotland finished fifth in a six-team section after winning just two of their 10 matches.

The new era continues against Slovakia Under-21s in a friendly at the Myjava Stadium today.

Gemmill said: “It is another really tough game, playing against a team which has qualified for the finals.

“The Slovakia team have had a really excellent qualification campaign, but at the same time it is a game that we have consciously chosen to really test our players.

“I think it’s what definitely what helps our players progress and they need to play, they need to show they can play at this level against top opposition who are going to the finals.”

Morton forward Jai Quitongo, Celtic goalkeeper Ross Doohan and Hamilton Academical striker Eamonn Brophy were given their first call-ups in a young squad, with Ayr United’s Alan Forrest a late draftee.

Gemmill said: “I wouldn’t use the word experiment but it’s definitely a time that we need to maximise in terms of looking at the squad, looking at the players and working towards the games next year.”

Picture: SNS. Scot Gemmill: looking to put players to test.