Robert Snodgrass has thrown his support behind David Moyes to become the next Scotland manager, dismissing any notion that the Everton boss would be reluctant to leave his Premier League post. The former Scotland international, who played under Moyes at West Ham, believes the 62-year-old is perfectly equipped to succeed Steve Clarke at Hampden.
Clarke's resignation shocks Scottish football
Steve Clarke's resignation as Scotland manager came as a bombshell after seven years in charge and three tournament qualifications. The 62-year-old walked away despite signing a new four-year contract just before the World Cup in the United States. Scotland's meek exit, with only one goal scored in three matches – a narrow win over Haiti followed by losses to Morocco and Brazil – prompted Clarke's decision.
Snodgrass, who won 28 caps for Scotland between 2011 and 2019, scoring seven times, expressed his disappointment. "The reaction is disappointment. You're sitting there watching as a fan and hoping Scotland can get something from the game," he told talkSPORT BET Sportsbook. "I think the biggest thing everyone was talking about before the game was whether you go for it or work on goal difference."
Snodgrass backs Moyes for the role
Speaking about Moyes, Snodgrass said: "It is a testament to David Moyes that he has always had options in the Premier League, which has been a big pull for him. What a terrific manager and a great guy. He speaks so highly of Scotland and I'm sure further down the line that might be the case."
Moyes is currently at Everton on a lucrative deal, having been lured back to the Merseyside club. Snodgrass added: "He did a terrific job last year and he will want to kick on again. He is fully equipped to succeed, that is David Moyes. That is why he has been at the top for so long. In terms of Scotland, who knows what might happen?"
Clarke's frustration and the team's performance
Snodgrass reflected on Clarke's post-match frustration after the Brazil defeat. "In his last few interviews, Steve Clarke has shown a lot of frustration. I can't speak on behalf of him, but I would probably put it down to it being fresh after the game. He maybe hadn't even spoken to his players yet before getting a microphone in his face. But this is your job, you need to answer these questions the best way you can."
He continued: "He's probably just disappointed. He has a group of players that he loves and he probably just feels a bit let down by the performance. As I say, it is very unlike Scotland to make mistakes like that at such a vital time."
Snodgrass noted that Scotland's defensive solidity had waned. "When you look at the way we conceded the goals, it is very unlike Scotland, they have been solid, but I've not really seen that lately. I don't know if there are nerves creeping in because of the big stage, but they have been to tournaments before so I can't make excuses for that."
Looking ahead for Scotland
The SFA must now find a replacement for Clarke. Snodgrass praised the Scotland fans: "The Scotland fans are incredible, absolutely amazing. The Tartan Army is everywhere, and seeing everyone coming together is great. They have connected with a lot of places like Boston and Miami. The content and videos have been a breath of fresh air and I love seeing it."
He concluded: "Seeing the Scottish fans happy and smiling is great, they deserve to be at these big tournaments, especially with that fan base. It is sad for them and a loss for the tournament."
