Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has publicly backed Scotland manager Steve Clarke, encouraging the Tartan Army to stand firm in their support despite a dismal run of form.
Clarke has faced significant scrutiny following Scotland's lacklustre performance at Euro 2024 this summer, where they were eliminated in the group stage without registering a single win in Germany.
This disappointment has been compounded by a recent narrow defeat to Poland in their UEFA Nations League opener at Hampden Park on Thursday. The manner of conceding so late once again will have inflicted deja-vu after the way Hungary won the match that confirmed Scotland’s exit from the showpiece tournament.
The situation is further concerning for Clarke, as Scotland has managed to secure just one victory in their last 13 matches. That came against Gibraltar, and even then, it was far from convincing.
This troubling run has led to increased pressure on the Scots gaffer, but Martinez, who previously had a six-year spell as Belgium boss, believes that loyalty to Clarke is essential during these challenging times.
He emphasised the importance of stability and trust in his leadership, urging the nation to remain patient as the team and coaching staff navigate this rough patch.
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“It’s important to measure what Steve has done to the Scotland national team. Look at what he’s built," Martinez said as he addressed the media on the eve of the Group A1 clash in Lisbon.
"The feeling of having a national team qualifying for a Euros with an incredible record. That’s something to believe in for Scotland fans. International football isn’t easy and it’s not easy to reach tournaments.
"My experience tells me that it’s well worth it to carry on and believe in his project. You have to get beyond the emotional results from a big tournament where you’re playing against the best players in Europe.
“Steve has a lot of experience. He’s been in big dressing-rooms in his career. And it’s more about what he’s done for Scotland rather than highlighting recent results.
“All the national teams develop when they work with a coach and go through different experiences.
“The team is more clear now in what they are trying to do. They have a real understanding and a very good age group with a lot of caps in that starting XI now.
“Obviously Steve knows the players really well and the game against Spain will always be a stand-out for me.
“What they achieved against Spain at Hampden – and in Seville as well – showed that this team is very competitive and a team which works with a real clarity on what Steve wants from the group of players.”
