Steve Clarke's something different' Ben Doak verdict Boro and Liverpool already knew

Scotland manager Steve Clarke will continue to protect Middlesbrough star Ben Doak after another impressive display on the international scene. But he admits the Liverpool loanee gives his side 'something different' with his attacking brand of football.

The 19-year-old starred for Scotland in the 1-0 Nations League win over Croatia at Hampden Park on Friday night, setting up John McGinn for the winning goal and going close to breaking the deadlock himself. It was another quality performance from the youngster, who is establishing himself in Michael Carrick's Boro squad after joining on loan from Liverpool over the summer.

He headed off on international duty having provided two assists in the 5-1 victory over Luton Town, adding to his contribution for Riley McGree's opener in the 4-1 win at QPR the previous week.

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Clarke knows he must handle someone of Doak's tender years with care, but is also well aware that he has the ability to be a gamechanger for Scotland.

"He's come into the team, he's shown a really positive attitude," Clarke said following the win over Croatia. "He gives us something different to what we've had before.

"He gets the assist for the goal, could maybe have had a couple more, maybe have scored one himself. He's a young player we need to protect and look after but realise that he's good for now and hopefully for a long time in the future."

Doak will be hoping for another chance to impress on Monday night when Scotland take on Poland in Warsaw in their final Nations League game. A win for Clarke's side would mean they avoid automatic relegation from their A1 division.