McTominay's World Cup impact has been shrouded in expectation, with many pinning their hopes on the 29-year-old Napoli midfielder to deliver a knockout blow against the world's best. But two group stage matches down, and the question is being asked: has Scotland's star player finally faltered under the global spotlight?
With 15 goals and two assists in 72 caps, McTominay's international record suggests he's more than capable of rising to the occasion. Those crucial strikes against Israel and a famous brace against Spain at Hampden Park have forged an unshakeable reputation, leaving fans believing their man can conquer any opponent. But on this evidence, BBC Sport audience ratings say otherwise – placing him behind several teammates in both World Cup fixtures with a rating of 5.09 against Morocco.
But scratch beneath the surface, and you'll find a more complex picture emerging. McTominay's statistics tell a tale of a player who's still making his presence felt, despite the numbers not always telling the story. Against Haiti, he racked up an incredible 93% pass completion rate – second only to one teammate in the starting eleven – and clocked over 12km of ground, more than anyone else on the pitch. And even when battling a dodgy stomach before kick-off, he still managed a full 90 minutes.
Against Morocco, McTominay's pass completion remained strong at 89%, third only to two teammates among Scotland's starters – and he was only narrowly outrun by Lewis Ferguson. He also fired in two shots on goal in both games, one more than his 'heroic' display against Denmark.
Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin has offered a valuable insight into McTominay's playing style: "Scott is not Billy Gilmour – he won't run the game and pass it 50 times. He can do all those things, but being world class at arriving in the box? That's where he excels." This perspective highlights McTominay's strengths as an attacking midfielder – and suggests his effectiveness is maximised when Scotland are on the front foot.
McTominay's struggles to date have coincided with periods of Scottish defending, when they struggled to break free from their shackles. But against Morocco, as they began to attack with more purpose in the second half, McTominay's influence grew. As Scotland prepare to face Brazil, Steve Clarke will be looking to unleash his star player in a way that allows him to wreak havoc – and put those doubters firmly in their place.