Scotland had a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign after such an impressive qualifying campaign.
Respected author John Bleasdale was in Germany following the side and he gives us verdict on the current state of the Scotland National Team.
How do you reflect on Scotland’s performance at Euro 2024?
Euro 2024 was a huge disappointment for the national team. I think the team was overawed by playing in the opening game, and Germany tore them to shreds. To have that buildup and then see such an inept performance was disheartening. Switzerland was better—though it couldn’t have been much worse—but it felt like Clarke played it too safe with his substitutions, and there was no real belief that we could win the game. Hungary was the most disappointing in terms of the way we set up; again, the subs were predictable and made too late. We can complain about the Armstrong penalty claim—it was a penalty—but all things considered, we got what we deserved on the night and overall in the tournament. Stats don’t lie; we were the worst team at the finals. Yes, we were hampered by injuries, particularly at RWB, but Clarke should have adapted and changed his system. His stubbornness cost us.
You were out in Germany for Euro 2024. What was it like following Scotland in a major tournament on foreign soil?
Germany was amazing, aside from Scotland’s performances, of course. The atmosphere and camaraderie between fans of most nations were terrific. With this being the first proper tournament post-COVID in an accessible country, I think most fans just wanted to enjoy it, and there wasn’t a hint of trouble anywhere. The food and beer went down well. Cologne was my favourite city, so I’m glad I based myself there.
What are your hopes for Scotland going into that Nations League campaign?
I think Portugal, with or without Ronaldo, will win our Nations League group, but there’s every chance we could finish second if we get it right. Croatia will be rebuilding post-Modrić, and Poland could be without Lewandowski, who’s in his late 30s. Even with him, they are not as good as they were six or seven years ago. However, the pressure is on Steve Clarke to learn from his mistakes at the Euros. If we have a disastrous campaign, his credit will have expired, and we’ll be looking for a new manager at the turn of the year.
Finally, John, as an esteemed author and writer on the Scotland National Team, how can readers purchase your books and follow your latest work?
You can purchase “Scotland’s Swedish Adventure” and “We’re Going to Wembley: Scotland’s Euro 96 Journey” from the usual outlets of Amazon or Waterstones, or you can contact me directly on Social Media if you want a signed authors copy. I also write regularly for Famous Tartan Army Magazine and Scottish Football Forums Podcast.
Featured image: “Steve Clarke 2019” by Анна Джалалян is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Callum McFadden 