Angus Gunn is glad Scotland have stuck by Steve Clarke - and he claims the head coach has helped take the national team to the "next level".
Since earning his first cap during a 3-0 Euro 2024 qualification win over Cyprus less than 15 months ago, Gunn has been Scotland's undisputed number one goalkeeper.
During that period, which has seen him reach 10 appearances in dark blue, Scotland have qualified for this summer's tournament in Germany - beating Spain and Norway in the process.
While, the shot-stopper's ability to keep four clean sheets from the six Group A games he featured in proved just as pivotal.
But Gunn is firmly aware there were times prior to his inclusion that Scotland supporters weren't as optimistic about life under Clarke - and he's relieved to see the Scottish FA show loyalty to the manager, who began his tenure five years ago this week.
"I've really enjoyed it," the Norwich City star admitted.
"Obviously I have only been there for about a year now and ever since I joined the squad, I have felt really welcomed. Not only by him but all the staff and all the lads as well.
"It just shows what he's built over the last few years in terms of building that group from sort of where they were, maybe a pot 3, pot 4 team, to now building us into a pot 2 team and going into the Nations League top-tier as well.
"So, it just shows what happens when you put your trust in a manager and let him build something. He's really taken the national team to the next level I think."
Euros fever has captured the entire nation, although Gunn is trying his hardest to not get sucked up in the hype.
He believes it's his job as a player to try block out the noise surrounding Scotland's place at the tournament and remain focused on each game as it comes.
However, he couldn't refrain from suggesting the Germany opener is a "free hit" for the Scots.
"Ever since the draw was made a few months back, all the lads, all the country and everyone has been so excited for it and talking about the game," he told Sky Sports.
"But I think it's our job to try and stay from the build up to it, obviously it's the opening game, it's against Germany the hosts of the tournament, and I think it's our job to probably let them have the pressure. We can go into it as a free hit and hopefully cause a bit upset."
