Scotland's Tommy Conway Reflects on World Cup Ambitions
Middlesbrough striker Tommy Conway, who has earned six caps for Scotland, revealed he feared his World Cup aspirations were fading before being called up for Scotland's upcoming friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast.
The 23-year-old forward from Middlesbrough did not feature in Scotland's successful qualification campaign last year, which concluded with a dramatic victory over Denmark at Hampden Park.
Conway now has the opportunity to increase his international appearances during the friendlies; first against Japan at Hampden on Saturday, and then against Ivory Coast on Tuesday at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium, as Scotland prepare for the World Cup finals this summer.
"If I'm being completely honest, I knew I was going to have to be in this camp to have a real chance of going to the World Cup," Conway said.
"I set myself targets and goals and I really did commit to the process ever since November, using it as fuel to make sure I got into this one.
"I've done that and almost that's like the first box ticked. The next box ticked is to get to the World Cup and I'm doing everything I can to get there.
"I missed out on three camps and I'd be lying if you don't start to think, 'am I for Scotland anymore? What am I going to have to do to get back into the squad?'
"You have to feel like, 'I've been there before, so why can't I be there again?
"I work every day to achieve targets that I set myself and playing for Scotland is the pinnacle for me."
Conway's Recent International and Club Performances
Conway last represented Scotland under manager Steve Clarke in a friendly win over Liechtenstein in June. Missing out on the memorable night against Denmark at Hampden provided him with extra motivation to reclaim his place in the national team.
The former Bristol City forward has been a key player for Middlesbrough as they pursue promotion to the Premier League. His tally of eight goals in 39 appearances has contributed to Boro's second-place standing in the Championship, with seven games remaining in the season.
Conway believes that the pressure of competing for promotion has enhanced his development and will be beneficial for his international performances.
"We're doing well and I want to bring that winning mentality to Scotland and try and make my mark when I'm away at the international stage," he added.
"I think playing with pressure every week is only going to benefit you and the experience you get from that.
"You can then take that into playing for Scotland as well and, when you go to the World Cup, if I make it there, it's going to be pressure."
Additional Context
Scotland's preparations for the World Cup include key questions for manager Steve Clarke during the final pre-tournament camp. The journey to qualification has been recounted by those involved, highlighting the significance of the campaign. Furthermore, the competitive environment faced by Scottish players is seen as a motivating factor, as noted by Andreatta.
