Former Scotland striker Kris Boyd has launched a fierce defence of Steve Clarke, branding the criticism that led to his resignation as 'disgraceful'. Boyd also claimed he would not be surprised if Clarke left his post without taking any compensation from the SFA.
Clarke steps down after World Cup exit
Scotland are searching for a new manager after Clarke announced his departure on Saturday night, moments after Scotland's World Cup elimination was confirmed. The decision came just weeks after he signed a lucrative four-year contract, with expectations he would lead the team through to the 2028 World Cup.
Despite a win over Haiti, defeats to Morocco and Brazil meant Scotland failed to progress. The SFA confirmed Clarke's immediate resignation.
Boyd defends Clarke's record
Boyd insisted the criticism was over the top and directly influenced Clarke's decision. He told Sky Sports: 'A lot of people have had a lot to say about Steve Clarke in recent times, and I think he had enough of the criticism and decided to call it a day.'
Clarke leaves as statistically Scotland's greatest ever manager, having taken over at a low ebb and transformed the team into tournament regulars. However, his record at major tournaments—just one win in nine matches across two European Championships and one World Cup—drew heavy criticism from fans.
Compensation speculation
There has been much speculation about what the SFA would have to pay Clarke to sever his four-year deal. Boyd reckons he may have walked away for free. 'I know what kind of man he is. It wouldn't surprise me if he stepped away from the SFA without taking a penny,' Boyd said.
He added: 'A lot of the criticism that has been flying around for the last three or four days has been an absolute disgrace. For someone who has given a lot of fans the best time of their life in terms of following their country, because it's been a long, long time.'
Looking back at Clarke's achievements
Boyd warned that it might take years for fans to appreciate Clarke's accomplishments. 'They've spent a lot of money, I understand that. But there have been people before willing to spend a lot of money, but haven't been able to do it because the team hasn't reached major tournaments. This team has done that under Steve Clarke, and still been criticised.'
Clarke's tenure ends with Scotland having qualified for back-to-back European Championships and a World Cup, a feat not achieved in decades.
