Scotland are keeping a close eye on midfielder Scott McTominay ahead of their opening World Cup fixture on Saturday evening against Haiti.
The Napoli star was absent from Thursday’s training session after suffering from an upset stomach in the build-up to the tournament opener.
McTominay was part of the travelling party that made the journey from Scotland’s base camp in Charlotte to Boston.
However, the 29-year-old did not board the team bus on arrival, instead making his own separate journey accompanied by a doctor as a precautionary measure.
Steve Clarke’s side face Haiti on Saturday evening, with kick-off scheduled for Sunday at 02:00 BST at Boston Stadium in Foxborough.
It marks Scotland’s first appearance at a World Cup in 28 years, a historic moment the nation has been building towards for some time.
McTominay has been central to Scotland’s recent campaigns and underlined his importance with a goal in their convincing 4-0 warm-up win over Bolivia last Saturday.
The midfielder, who has scored 15 goals across 70 international caps, will be desperately hoping to shake off his illness before the Haiti clash.
Clarke is set to speak to the media on Friday, and supporters who have travelled to Boston in huge numbers will be eager for a positive fitness update on their talisman.
Scotland also face Morocco and Brazil in the group stage, meaning every available player will be needed if they are to make a serious impression at this tournament.
Fellow midfielder Kenny McLean offered some reassurance when speaking at Thursday’s media conference, addressing McTominay’s situation directly.
“Hopefully that doesn’t spread. Fingers crossed Scott will be fine. I’m sure he will be,” McLean said, speaking with measured optimism about his club colleague.
McLean continued: “I don’t need to speak too much on him, everyone knows how big he is.”
The Norwich City midfielder added: “It’s a team effort and always will be, but when you have special, special players like that you want them to be available. I’m sure he will be.”
Scotland supporters who have made the trip across the Atlantic will be hoping Friday’s press conference brings positive news ahead of the nation’s landmark return to the World Cup stage.
