Steve Clarke resigns after Scotland's World Cup exit

Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland's head coach after the country's World Cup exit.

Clarke was just four weeks in to a new four-year contract.

He had been in charge of his nation since 2019 and is the nation's longest serving manager.

The Scottish FA announced the news just minutes after Croatia beat Ghana, which eliminated the Scots.

Clarke said: "The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn't have had any of the memories that we've accumulated from 2019 until now.

"They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive and it was truly an honour to be called their gaffer.

"Thanks for having me and good luck to my successor."

The 62-year-old ended a 23 year wait to reach a major tournament when he led the team for Euro 2020, one of three major finals he qualified for.

However, in all three competitions Scotland underwhelmed and were knocked out in the group stage.

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive, added: “While we are all disappointed to have exited the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven years in charge.

“From starting as a pot four team in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than delivered on the remit to take Scotland back to a major tournament.

“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination subsides, the Scotland supporters will be thankful for the memories of marching with pride at major tournaments once again.

The Scotland squad will fly back from the training base in North Carolina on Sunday.

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