Steve Clarke has shared his insights on what Scotland needs to achieve future success following their exit from the World Cup. The departing head coach emphasized that a mix of seasoned experience from core players and a fresh wave of talent will be vital for the national team as they aim for a groundbreaking performance at Euro 2028, which Scotland will co-host.

Clarke expressed confidence that his successor will inherit a squad capable of reaching the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time. During his seven-year tenure, he successfully ended Scotland’s two-decade absence from major tournaments, qualifying for two European Championships and a World Cup, relying heavily on key players like Andy Robertson, John McGinn, Ryan Christie, and Scott McTominay.

He highlighted the importance of integrating emerging players such as Ben Gannon-Doak, Findlay Curtis, Tyler Fletcher, Tommy Conway, James Wilson, and Lennon Miller into the squad.

Clarke stated, "You have to take the core group but you have to keep evolving round about it." He believes the next generation must learn from the senior players, who have accumulated significant experience, stating, "We had just about a thousand caps in the squad, which is good experience at international level."

Despite speculation regarding the current senior players being past their prime, Clarke insisted they still have much to contribute. He looks forward to enjoying Euro 2028 as a fan, hoping the team achieves something unprecedented for Scotland.

While England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales will co-host Euro 2028, qualification is not assured for all. Clarke urged his players to earn their place, emphasizing the significance of qualifying on merit rather than relying on co-host status.

In his farewell, he remarked, "I think our qualification record is probably unsurpassed in Scottish history." He concluded with optimism, stating he looks forward to watching the team succeed in the next Euros.