Facing intense criticism is nothing new for Scotland head coach Steve Clarke. After a disappointing Euros campaign, marked by dejected players leaving Germany to the sound of a Bavarian oompah band, Clarke once again found himself under the microscope.
Fast forward, and the praise for revitalising the team is equally familiar, particularly after Andy Robertson’s dramatic last-gasp winner in Warsaw. Clarke’s ability to recover from adversity is a cornerstone of his leadership, a trait that is paying dividends for Scotland after ending their Nations League campaign with morale-boosting victories over Croatia and Poland.
While the road ahead includes a crucial relegation play-off in March, recent changes have breathed new life into the squad. A shift to a 4-2-3-1 formation and the emergence of teenage sensation Ben Doak have sparked optimism. Once considered to have reached their ceiling, the Scots have shown tangible progress, holding their own against higher-ranked teams and rekindling the Tartan Army’s hopes.
“The players didn’t lose belief, and I didn’t lose belief in them,” said Clarke. “The more you play at this level, the more you learn how to win these games, and we’ve proven that.”
Clarke Will Always Find a Way
Steve Clarke’s level-headed approach is proving invaluable in a high-pressure role. Post-match in Warsaw, his reaction to the victory was characteristically understated, calling it “just another step on the journey” toward a third major tournament.
Clarke’s appointment in 2019 was widely celebrated after his exceptional work at Kilmarnock. However, his early tenure included heavy defeats to Belgium and Russia, dampening initial optimism. Clarke responded with tactical ingenuity, adopting a back three and deploying Scott McTominay in an unconventional defensive role. This shift paid off, leading to a nine-game unbeaten streak and qualification for Euro 2020, Scotland’s first major tournament in over two decades.
Setbacks have persisted, including a sobering Nations League defeat in Ireland and missing out on the 2022 World Cup. Yet, Clarke has repeatedly silenced critics, notably by securing Scotland’s spot in Euro 2024 with a flawless run of five qualifiers.
When calls for a fresh approach arose after a disappointing summer, Clarke adapted. A formation change to 4-2-3-1 brought more creativity and pace, with Doak providing energy and width. Despite early Nations League setbacks, Scotland ended their campaign strongly, earning seven points from their final three matches and narrowly avoiding relegation.
“Clarke’s change of system has brought more freedom,” noted former Scotland midfielder John Collins. “The players look more comfortable in possession and have more attacking options.”
Ex-Scotland forward James McFadden added: “We don’t have strikers who score every game, but Clarke knows how to maximise his players’ potential. He’s built a strong squad, and we can look ahead to World Cup qualifiers with confidence.”
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