Gordon Strachan says David Marshall could rival Allan McGregor for top Scotland spot

Gordon Strachan says that Cardiff City’s David Marshall is ready to challenge Allan McGregor’s place as Scotland’s number one goalkeeper.

Hull City’s McGregor missed Scotland’s two friendly games, with the United States and Norway because of a thigh injury and Cardiff’s David Marshall stepped up in his absence.

“I’ve known David for a long time and he’s now got a presence about him that he didn’t always have,” said the Scotland manager.

“It’s not arrogance, it’s just a self-confidence. He hasn’t changed off the pitch. He’s still a very quiet and unassuming man but there is now a presence on the pitch.

“Is he now putting Allan McGregor under pressure for the number one spot? Yeah, I think he is.

“I’m enjoying working with the lads and the longer it has gone on the more pleased I’ve been, especially after a poor start.

“That start affects people and tests your mentality. But it’s good to be here picking up another victory. That keeps us going for another three and a bit months until the next game.

“I look back to the Wales game (2-1 home defeat) and that was a long night. I’m getting better sleeps now.”