STEVE SET TO THINK AGAIN

Boss says 25% chance of U-turn on his Scotland departure plan

- By Fraser Wilson

STEVE CLARKE says a successful World Cup campaign could convince him to extend his reign as Scotland boss.

The 61-year-old's contract with the SFA runs out after the summer 2026 showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

After last year's Euro 2024 flop, Clarke argued he'd earned the right to have a bash at leading the nation to a first World Cup since 1998.

But while he stressed his commitment to Scotland for the remainder of his contract at that stage, he said he did not see himself continuing beyond 2026.

Now, after a heartening Nations League campaign that has teed up a top-tier play-off against Greece next week, the next 12 months will determine if Clarke stages a U-turn on his future.

He quipped: "Only if you guys want me! Listen, it is one of those things, I have decided that I want to run my contract down.

"If we have a fantastic year and get to the World Cup, maybe someone can persuade me to stay. But at this moment in time I am happy to run my contract down.

"And I want to go to America. That is the bottom line. I want to help this group of players to get to the World Cup.