Scots duo return for World Cup play-off

CHRISTY GRIMSHAW and Kirsty Hanson have returned to Pedro Martinez Losa’s Scotland squad ahead of the Women’s World Cup play-off semi-final against Austria on October 6. The duo have recovered from recent injury issues to take their place ahead of next week’s Hampden qualifier and are joined by Lisa Evans and Rangers midfielder Sam Kerr, who both dropped out the previous squad through injury. ‘Christy is playing with AC Milan and performing very well,’ said Martinez Losa. ‘She can play on the right or in the middle as an attacking midfielder. She is an excellent character as well as bringing big attributes to the team. She is a great addition to have back in.’ Should Scotland beat Austria next Thursday night, they will face the Republic of Ireland at home five days later. The best two of the three winners of Europe’s play-off finals, after their results in their respective groups and the second round of the play-offs are combined, will qualify directly for next summer’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. The third side face a February inter-confederation play-off in New Zealand where they could face Chinese Taipei, Thailand, Cameroon, Senegal, Haiti, Panama, Chile, Paraguay or Papua New Guinea. ‘The players are comfortable and feel good about what we are doing,’ said Martinez Losa. ‘We won’t be changing much. We will stick to our routine and work on the emotional aspects of these games and give the girls the confidence they need. ‘We are confident that we started a journey together. We have a clear vision and we are ready to try and go and make the most of this opportunity. It is a culture where we want the best and I think they feel safe and comfortable to do that.’