Roy Keane suspects Steve Clarke will stick with his Scotland qualifying heroes at the expense of starting Billy Gilmour against the Czech Republic.
The national team boss confirmed on Sunday he'd selected the side to step out at Hampden in a monumental Euro 2020 opener on Monday.
The Chelsea midfielder is in contention for a start alongside Rangers ' teenage right-back Nathan Patterson.
But former Manchester United captain Keane reckons Gilmour may have to settle for a place on the bench.
He said on ITV: "It's a bit like Gareth (Southgate) going back to the lads who've done well for him over the last year or two.
"Gilmour is a fantastic young talent and maybe Clarke will say 'I'll be loyal to the guys who got us there'.
"But again, a great option because he's a fantastic young footballer learning his trade. Maybe he comes off the bench.
"Again, very, very good player."
Keane insists the tournament opener is vital for Clarke's side ahead of a highly anticipated clash with England at Wembley on Friday.
He said: "They have got some good options and they've got momentum.
"Having qualified, the feel-good factor is back but we go back to it - the first game is vital.
"If they get a decent result they'll look forward to the England game and bounce into that.
"But if they get beaten - or even a poor performance - they're going up against England in a different mindset.
"They've certainly got some good players, playing week-in week-out in the Premier League so it'll be a tough game for England.
"But then again, if you're in the England camp you're rubbing your hands going 'Scotland coming to Wembley? Bring it on'."
