In this video
- Clarke said every step forward hopefully makes for an even bigger game. Asked about Belarus, he said they will be organised and difficult to break down, and until you do, it is a long night.
- Asked about taking charge of more Scotland games than anyone, Clarke said he would be a bit daft not to be proud. But it should be about the team and getting to the World Cup.
“I'd rather make my own mistakes.”
- Asked why a World Cup means so much, Clarke said he wanted to go as a player and got close in 1990. It still hurts a little, and now he has a chance to do it.
- Asked about Billy Gilmour's frustration at not starting, Clarke said he is frustrated too that he cannot pick every good player. He knew Gilmour would help when he put him on.
- Asked if he ever thought he would stop being Scotland manager, Clarke said not really. After last summer's tournament, he told Ian Maxwell he would rather stay on the contract he is on.
- Asked if he has got used to the job, Clarke said it took him maybe 18 months to handle the downtime between camps. He still sees himself with a club job in the future.
- Asked why Scott McKenna replaced Grant Hanley last game, Clarke said he wanted a left-footed player for balance. If Hanley starts tomorrow, 65 caps would be a great achievement.
Steve Clarke : Want to Go to the World Cup This Time as Manager
Steve Clarke speaks openly ahead of Scotland’s World Cup qualifier match against Belarus, reflecting on the importance of the match, the evolution of his squad, and his personal journey as Scotland’s national team manager.
Steve Clarke addresses the expectations surrounding the team, emphasizes that he isn’t underestimating opponents like Belarus, and urges both players and fans to stay focused and united.
With a record number of games managed for Scotland, he acknowledges the milestone, but insists the focus must remain on reaching the 2026 World Cup.
He discusses his relationship with players like Billy Gilmour, the transition from club to national management, and the emotional weight of leading Scotland to their first World Cup since 1998.
