Preview: Scotland vs. Republic of Ireland

Scotland host the Republic of Ireland on Friday in a crucial match for both nations in Euro 2016 qualifying.

The fourth-placed Scots have four points after three matches in Group D, while Ireland are level with leaders Poland on seven.

Gordon Strachan's team earned a credible 2-2 draw away to Poland in their last game, but it could be argued that Ireland will be the more confident of the two sides after drawing 1-1 in Germany.

The Scots have have won three and lost four of their previous nine matches against Ireland, though their last victory over the Irish on home turf came back in 1961.

Phil Bardsley and Craig Bryson are both missing through injury for the hosts, who have called up Callum Paterson and Johnny Russell as replacements.

James McCarthy is a doubt for Ireland due to a hamstring strain, while Kevin Doyle and Kieran Westwood have both been forced to withdraw from the squad.

Recent form

Scotland: WWDLWD

Ireland: DLWWWD

Possible starting lineups

Scotland: Marshall; Hutton, R Martin, Greer, Whittaker; Brown, Morrison, Maloney, Naismith; Anya, S Fletcher

Ireland: Forde; Meyler, O'Shea, Wilson, Ward; McGeady, Quinn, Whelan, McClean; Keane, Walters

Sports Mole says: 1-2