Scotland head coach Steve Clarke has been dealt a big blow just over 24 hours from a defining World Cup 2022 qualifier as Scott McTominay is ruled out the match with Moldova.
The Manchester United midfielder - who has been used as a centre-back by Clarke - has picked up a throat virus which has forced him to depart Scotland's Spanish training base.
McTominay netted the winner in the nation's 3-2 win over Israel last month which put Scotland closer to a World Cup play-off spot.
Victory over the Moldovans on Friday will secure that place for a chance to reach the major tournament in Qatar next year.
It's the second time McTominay has missed Scotland duty this season after a minor operation ruled him out of September's camp.
Clarke is left with one less option in defence and midfield, having already had to contend with the loss of Norwich City captain Grant Hanley and Newcastle United's Ryan Fraser.
There is suspicion over the latter's lack of involvement after the attacker was spotted in Newcastle training this week. Hearts' John Souttar has been called up.
Scotland will look to wrap up second place in qualification Group F on Friday before finishing the campaign at a sold-out Hampden against first-placed Denmark next Monday.
