Steve Clarke has quipped that maths isn't his bag as the permutations regarding Scotland’s potential qualification for Euro 2024 reached full flow.
The Scotland boss was delighted with his players after their top class performance in the 3-0 win over Cyprus.
The journey to Germany next summer could be sealed on Tuesday evening, as Scotland face England at Hampden. That would require the other two matches in the group to go in Scotland’s favour, though.
But regardless, Scotland are edging closer to sealing qualification after earning five wins from five games in the group.
When the manager was asked if he had a preference when Scotland qualified, he smiled: “I only got a B in mathematics, so I’m not very good at mathematics. In fact, it was a B in arithmetic, I got into trouble with my parents because I only got a B.
“The objective when we started the group was to qualify. We qualify when we qualify.”
He added: “Every result that we’ve had in the group has been important. It’s been a process towards qualification, that’s what we’ve spoken about inside the dressing room. That’s all we’ve focussed on – trying to make the right steps at the right time. It’s another step. We still need a little bit more.
“At the moment the table looks pretty nice. It was a big win for Spain, we got there next. We have to be ready for a really tough game.
“I can’t think too far ahead because you’re asking me to predict results and what might happen in the future, I don’t know. At this moment in time, I know that five wins is a pretty healthy position. I’ll celebrate when we’re there.
“If you don’t concede goals you’ve got a much better chance of winning games, that’s the philosophy in my head anyway.
“The supporters can get carried away, that’s what they’re allowed to do. They’re allowed to dream and think that we’re already there.
“We have to remain professional and we have to look to the next competitive game. But we also have quite a nice friendly match on Tuesday night against England, so we have to be ready for that as well. It’s not about getting carried away, it’s about being professional and trying to make sure that we can continue to make the supporters happy.”
