Steve Clarke's position as Scotland manager has come under scrutiny after the Scottish FA awarded him a four-year contract extension just before the World Cup. The decision, described as 'staggering' by chief executive Ian Maxwell, has raised questions about whether the team's tournament performance truly matters to the governing body.
Clarke, 62, initially seemed content to leave after the World Cup but changed his mind, with the new deal potentially taking his reign to 11 years. Critics suggest the timing is linked to Scotland's automatic qualification for Euro 2028 as a host nation, making future success easier to achieve. The manager has also doubled his salary through bonuses for each qualifying phase exit.
Despite the controversy, Clarke has been praised for improving standards and attitudes, with three tournament qualifications in four attempts. His hands-on approach on the training ground has earned respect from players, and the Scottish FA faces a challenge in finding a successor of similar calibre, especially given the preference for a Scottish coach.
Scotland's World Cup campaign hinges on their opening Group C match against Haiti. A comprehensive win would likely secure a knockout berth for the first time, while any other result could spell trouble with Morocco and Brazil to follow. Haiti impressed with a 4-0 victory over New Zealand, but Scotland, with superior resources and a squad in its prime, have no excuse not to seize the opportunity.
