Steve Clarke insists he isn’t worried about Scotland’s post-Euros call-offs

STEVE CLARKE has insisted he isn’t worried by Scotland’s post-Euros call-offs.

Torino striker Che Adams has pulled out of the games against Poland on Thursday and Portugal on Sunday.

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Reports in Italy claim Adams asked to miss the Nations League double-header as he settles into his new city.

The striker has been spotted training in Turin, but Clarke insists he is injured, along with Celtic duo James Forrest and Greg Taylor, who have also pulled out.

And he shrugged off Callum McGregor’s international retirement, saying he has no concerns over player exits.

He said: “No, I don’t think so. By the nature of the players that are injured, they are quite significant injuries.

“Callum’s made his decision. That’s one retirement across just over five years.

“So I don’t think it’s anything that we should worry too much about at this moment in time.

“Ask me in another three or four camps.”

Scotland face Poland with a 50,000 sell-out crowd expected at Hampden.

They then head to Lisbon for Sunday’s daunting clash with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portuguese superstars.

Clarke was gutted at Scotland’s dismal showing at the Euros in Germany, where his side exited with one point from three games.

But he wants to see a reaction against the Poles.

Clarke said: “For me, it’s been a long summer.

“I’m looking forward to the game and seeing what we get from the players. I’m sure we will get a good reaction.

“We watched Poland’s performances in the summer. They defend well, they have a strong defence. They are also very positive when they go forward.

“They attack with two wing-backs and have two strikers, if they play the same system with two attacking midfielders.

“They can be quite open at times. I expect an open game.”

Clarke admits Scotland head of performance Graeme Jones’ move to join Hearts will leave a huge void.

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He said: “It is going to be a big miss for me.

“Graeme has been an integral part of the staff since I got here.

“He was first put in that position with Alex McLeish and it helps us qualify for tournaments.

“Graeme’s input has been fantastic.

“Like everyone else, career moves come along.

“He had to make a decision on a career move, whether to stay with the association or go and try his hand at a club job.

“He has chosen to do that and we all wish him well.

“He’ll be here for the next two camps after this one anyway.

“We are grateful for everything he has done.”

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