Scotland manager Steve Clarke expects contract decision before World Cup

Clarke's deal expires after the World Cup, which he flies to in 13 days Ian MacNicol/Getty Images Share articleSteve Clarke expects his contract impasse to be decided before he and his Scotland team fly out for the World Cup. He named his 26-man squad for his third major tournament as manager but his contract is due to expire after the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The 62-year-old has previously expressed his desire to remain in charge but there are only 13 days until they travel to North America. “I am pretty sure it will be. Hopefully, that would be the plan,” he said. “But let’s just talk about the squad, not me. I am not important today.” Clarke spent two seasons at Kilmarnock between 2017 and 2019 but has lived in England for most of his adult life. He has been outspoken on sectarianism in the Scottish domestic game and again condemned the portion of Celtic fans who invaded the pitch in Saturday’s title-decider against Hearts. “Listen, the way the league season ended with the scenes on Saturday at Celtic Park was not good for Scottish football,” he said. “I think it’s a bad look that doesn’t do anybody any favours. It’s much better that the people celebrate but stay where they should stay. “People invading the pitch is not right because player safety is endangered. That is not correct — anywhere.” Clarke drew a distinction between the travelling Tartan Army and the incidents of disorder at home. Scotland scored two late goals in the do-or-die qualifier against Denmark in November which sent them to their first World Cup in 28 years. “Absolutely. That just shows that you can enjoy yourself without going out on the pitch,” he said. “I think the international scene is separate from the domestic scene. So the feel-good factor is around the international team. “That finished on a fantastic emotional high here at Hampden so we are good. The reputation of the Tartan Army and the Scottish fans is well-known worldwide. “They will go away, they will enjoy themselves. I think even over the disappointment in Germany (at the 2024 European Championship) the Tartan Army were top supporters. “They made a lot of friends in Germany and I’m sure they will make more friends over in the States.” Spot the pattern. Connect the terms Find the hidden link between sports terms