Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay has backed head coach Steve Clarke to continue leading the national team beyond the World Cup, calling him a “great man” and a “great coach”.
Clarke recently hinted that he wants his future sorted before Scotland travel to North America for the tournament, with reports suggesting he is close to extending his contract until Euro 2028.
McTominay said Clarke’s impact on the squad goes beyond football, helping create a strong atmosphere within the dressing room alongside senior players like captain Andy Robertson and midfielder John McGinn.
World Cup dream still driving McTominay
The Napoli midfielder admitted Scotland’s disappointing Euro 2024 campaign still frustrates him, with the side finishing bottom of their group in Germany.
He said the squad now has extra motivation heading into the World Cup, which marks Scotland’s first appearance at the finals since 1998.
McTominay also recalled watching Andres Iniesta score Spain’s winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final as one of his earliest tournament memories.
“The pinnacle of football is playing at a World Cup and the Champions League,” he said.
Napoli hero enjoying life in Italy
Since joining Napoli from Manchester United, McTominay has become a fan favourite after helping the club win the Serie A title.
The 29-year-old described the support from Napoli fans as “incredible” but insisted he stays away from social media and prefers to remain focused on football.
McTominay was speaking after his famous overhead kick against Denmark during Scotland’s World Cup qualifying campaign was featured on a new Bank of Scotland £20 note.
Discussion about this post