Scotland: Steve Clarke only focused on World Cup as he moves past Jock Stein & Andy Roxburgh

Steve Clarke says he was not aware that Tuesday’s Nations League match against Portugal will see him take charge of the second-most Scotland matches ever, behind only Craig Brown.

Clarke – who took charge in 2019 – will lead Scotland for the 62nd time against the Portuguese, taking him past both Jock Stein and Andy Roxburgh.

“I didn’t know that,” Clarke said. “Proud, obviously, to be mentioned in the same breath as people like Mr Stein and Mr Roxburgh, who still sends me the occasional email just to keep in touch. No, listen, it’s really good.

“It shows you that the players have been fantastic for us over the last five and a half years of my reign as head coach. I’d like to add a few more to the number, if I could.”

Asked if catching Brown is an incentive, Clarke stressed his sole focus is leading Scotland to the 2026 World Cup, after which his contract expires.

“I want to go to the World Cup,” he said.

“I believe this squad of players are good enough to go to the World Cup in 2026. That’s all I’m focused on.”