Steve Clarke told Scotland Euro 2024 saviour for right back issues could be unsung Hibs man

Nick Montgomery has suggested Steve Clarke take a look at Chris Cadden as he deals with a number of injury issues at right-back ahead of the Euros.

The Scotland boss faces heading into the tournament in Germany without two top stars in that position in Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson. The pair are set to miss the remainder of the season and potentially the competition and that leaves the Scots light on the right-hand side of the defence.

For Montgomery, Cadden has shown he has the mental strength already having returned from his own long-term injury and he feels the 27-year-old could be an outside contender to play for his country as he would thrive.

“I think he’d cope absolutely fine with it," Monty told the Evening News. "He’s played international football before, he’s played in big games, and sometimes you come back a better player – and a better person – after a long-term injury. Being out for so long gives you time to reflect on how you can be better. I know Chris does a lot of stuff on his mindset, working on that side of the game. That’s why he could come back and hit the ground running.

“It takes a resilient character and a strong mindset to come back from such a long injury and look like you’ve never been out. That tells you what you’re getting from Chris.”

The Hibs boss added: "I think the young boy Nathan Patterson is an outstanding young talent. But he’s out for the season now. Look, any Scottish player who plays right back is surely going to be thinking it could happen if they have a strong end to the season, with four games to go. I think Chris has been on a long journey, coming back from the injury, but he’s a fantastic professional.

“He’s an example of the culture I want to build at this club. Hard working, honest and consistent. The one thing with Chris is he will consistently deliver. You know what you get from him.

“Since he came back into our team, he’s been a breath of fresh air. Even while he was injured, I watched how he conducted himself on a daily basis and talked to him regularly.

“His mindset is exactly what I want in the players I’m looking to bring to this club. Single-minded and focused on being the best version of himself every day, in training, playing a game, attending a function, whatever he does. He’s a great example.

“I don’t pick the Scotland team, obviously. It’s easy for me to say. But if Scotland are struggling for a right back, he’s definitely someone who will maybe be considered by Steve Clarke and his staff.

“Because he’s well known in the Scottish game, as well. You know what you are going to get from him. He’ll be steady, consistent and effective.”