Laurence Shankland: Have Rangers just signed Scotland’s World Cup number nine?

At international level, he averages a goal every 104.8 minutes, which compares well with the rest of Scotland’s strikers.

Dykes averages every 205.4 minutes, Adams every 209 minutes and Hirst every 299 minutes. Stewart played just 34 minutes in Scotland’s two games and failed to register a goal or assist.

For a long time, Shankland was simply seen as a goal scorer. It’s not that he got a bad reputation, but Clarke was notably lacking in other areas that are highly valued – work rate, defense, physicality and connected play.

Over the past few seasons, Hearts’ captain has emerged as a more rounded Shankland – a more complete striker and effective leader.

“When I first met him as a player, he was a finisher,” Naismith says.

“It’s not the knowledge of the game or the intelligence or the real work level. And I think that’s a big change when I’m working with him as a coach.

“His game intelligence and quality is top notch. And not just when he’s been in a 3-0 winning team, he’s done it in bigger and bigger moments.

“The other part that doesn’t go unnoticed is his leadership skills. I remember when they played Holland (in 2024) he had a chance to shoot and it went to big Scotty McTominay. I was at Hearts at the time and I texted him saying, ‘You shoot at Hearts.’

“But at that time he might not be comfortable in this environment. Now, I think he’s at a point[where he thinks]’No, I’ll do what I need to contribute to the team.'”