Steve Clarke set his sights on the 2026 World Cup as soon as it was apparent Scotland would not feature in Qatar this year. The manager is aware staying in his position until that time is most likely dependent on qualifying for the European Championship which falls in between.
Ukraine’s 3-1 success at Hampden Park in midweek ended Scotland’s latest World Cup dream; their wait to appear on international football’s grandest stage will stretch to at least 28 years. “I need them,” said Clarke of his players. “I want them to help me because I want to go to a World Cup with my country and I told them that after the game.
