Clark cool on Katy Perry but hopes for fireworks

Even close proximity to a global superstar cannot divert Scotland’s attention from their World Cup dream. Or is it a teenage one? Katy Perry shared a city centre hotel with Steve Clarke and his squad this week as the singer’s Lifetimes tour stopped off in Glasgow. Clarke did not quite go as far as saying “Katy who?” but he was nonplussed by his squad rubbing shoulders with a bestselling artist.

- Ewan Murray

“Was she?” said Clarke when asked about Perry’s whereabouts. “I didn’t know she was there. I’ve heard the name and I’m sure if you played me a couple of her songs I’d say: ‘I recognise that one.’ But I couldn’t name you one of her songs. That’s no disrespect to Katy but I’m from a different generation.” Pressed on whether he would even recognise Perry, Clarke - by now laughing - added: “Eh, no. And she wouldn’t recognise me.” This very much feels like two worlds that should never collide.

Clarke was understandably more serious on the challenge likely to arrive from Greece this evening as Scotland kick off a crucial doubleheader.

Belarus also visit Hampden Park on Sunday, as Scotland look to build on the positive World Cup-qualifying opening provided by four points out of an available six.