Scotland camp ‘set for a shake-up’

SCOTLAND boss Steve Clarke has lost more than Callum McGregor this week, a report has claimed.

The Celtic midfielder announced his retirement from international football after 63 caps, on Friday.

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It’s a blow to the national team boss less than a month before the Nations League A stage campaign kicks off against Poland.

But Clarke’s midfield is not the only area that will have a different look to it.

His DUGOUT will too.

According to the Daily Record the Scotland boss has started a search for a new coach to join his regime alongside assistant John Carver and keeper coach Chris Woods.

That’s because former Scotland midfielder James Morrison has left the Hampden coaching set-up after 14months the report says.

And Clarke has little over three weeks before the squad reports for duty to find a new man.

He turned to Morrison – who won 46 caps in his time as a player – when Steven Naismith took on the Hearts job full-time.

Morrison had played under Clarke at West Brom.

But he’s now left the set-up, lopeaving Clarke looking for a fifth coach since taking over five years ago.

He brought Killie assistant Alex Dyer into the fold with him, as well as ex-Newcastle colleague John Carver.

Stephen Reid was also involved behind the scenes before Naismith joined the regime, succeeded by Morrison.

Clarke will also be on the hunt for a midfield replacement to squad regular Callum McGregor.

The Celtic captain will focus on his club career from now on, opening the door to a midfield replacement after amassing 63 caps.

Clarke paid tribute to McGregor, saying: “Callum will be missed by his teammates, the coaches, the backroom staff and the fans.

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“Callum’s consistency of performance and leadership qualities have been a real catalyst in the team’s return to major tournaments.

“He has been a driving force in the middle of the park and in many ways is a coach’s dream. He is low maintenance, leads by example and sets the highest standards every day in training and in matches.

“That professionalism and dedication has been a huge influence in our squad. We had a very good chat and while I am disappointed to lose Callum’s qualities I can understand the rationale behind his decision.

“I would like to thank him for all that he has contributed and helped us achieve.”

Who his immediate deputy is seems unclear with Lewis Ferguson still recovering from the knee injury that kept him out of the Euros and a lack of experience, though an abundance of talent in the youth ranks, beyond Kenny McLean.

Scotland meet Poland on September 5, before clashes with Portugal and Croatia later this year.

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