Scotland boss Steve Clarke responds to Steve Bruce's warning over Ryan Fraser fitness

The 27-year-old was called up to Clarke’s 26-man squad, despite not kicking a ball in nearly two months due to a thigh problem.

Injuries and lack of fitness have restricted the former Bournemouth winger to just nine Premier League during his debut campaign at St James’s Park.

Bruce, speaking ahead of the Sheffield United game, said it is a ‘gamble’ to take Fraser to Scotland’s first major tournament since 1998.

Clarke, while acknowledging Bruce’s warning, insisted it is a risk he is willing to take.

Scotland's first game of the tournament is against the Czech Republic at Hampden Park before they face England at Wembley and then Croatia.

Clarke said: “Ryan is fine, progressing, excited to be in the squad.

"I know what Steve is saying but if it’s a gamble, and Steve thinks it’s a gamble, then it’s a gamble I’m willing to take.”

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