Clarke's stick-or-twist dilemma key for Scots

After Nations League setback against Greece, head coach may concede that some in his squad have now run their race

- Ewan Murray

That familiarity breeds contempt towards managers can be unfair. That certainly applies to Steve Clarke, who has raised levels with Scotland to the point where qualifying for tournaments has become reality as opposed to a pipe dream. Clarke has been the head coach to end years in the international wilderness.

There is, however, a slightly ominous feel around the Scotland setup once more. Defeat by Greece - a rising force - can happen. What should not transpire is the thumping at Hampden Park on Sunday. Scotland looked utterly unprepared for what they faced. Theirs was a ragged display.

Clarke has made it obvious he views the World Cup campaign as his last. Another shot at club management is in his thoughts. Having been in the role since 2019, that familiarity consequence has the Tartan Army glancing towards a fresh start. Clarke's employers have no excuse for not having a succession plan; in the absence of an available Scotland-based head coach of the calibre required to lead the national team, it is going to have to broaden horizons. Clarke's raising of the bar has consequences for his replacement.