Kenny McLean has become a bona fide Tartan Army hero, but he would swap all the adulation for a place in the World Cup knockouts. The Scotland star admits he is tempted to shoot from distance when fans urge him on, but he risks the wrath of manager Steve Clarke.
McLean's Wonder Goal
The 34-year-old etched his name into national team folklore with a 50-yard strike against Denmark at Hampden, securing a 4-2 victory and Scotland's place at the World Cup. McLean says he would trade that moment for a last-32 spot in an instant.
"Obviously, a bit of pressure comes on me to shoot a bit more! Thankfully, I had that moment back in November and the fans got joy from it," McLean said. "Would I swap it for a place in the last 32? Yes. That moment wasn't just about me. That was about us getting here and now that we're here, we want to do more."
Comparing with Archie Gemmill
Thursday marked the anniversary of Archie Gemmill's iconic goal against Holland in 1978. McLean hopes his goal against Denmark is still talked about in 50 years, but he wants even more from this World Cup. "I hope so. But I just hope they are speaking about something that happens in this World Cup. That would be an even bigger dream for us," he said.
McLean's Scotland Career
McLean has been a stalwart for Scotland under Steve Clarke, scoring crucial penalties in qualification play-offs and a memorable winner against Norway en route to Euro 2024. He recently made his 700th career appearance against Bolivia in New Jersey.
"I've been in the game for a while now. I'm 34 and not getting any younger. To reach a milestone like that was pretty special. But doing it in a Scotland jersey made it even more special," McLean said.
Mentoring Young Players
McLean has taken on a mentoring role for younger players like Tyler Fletcher, who was a late call-up to replace Billy Gilmour. McLean praised Fletcher's quality and confidence. "I saw the ability, the way he received the ball, the small things. I could see it right away," McLean said.
He also had kind words for Lennon Miller, who missed out on the squad. "Again, his ability is through the roof, his ceiling is so high. There will be more opportunities for him in the future."
