Steve Clarke has been confirmed as Scotland’s new head coach after signing a three-year contract.
The 55-year-old stepped down as Kilmarnock manager after securing Europa League football for the club next season with a third-place finish in the Scottish Premiership.
A dramatic 2-1 victory over Rangers on the final day of the season meant Kilmarnock edged out Aberdeen on goal difference and Clarke was named Scottish Premiership Manager of the Season.
Clarke, who has also managed WestBrom and Reading, is expected to announce his first Scotland squad on May 28 ahead of the side’s clashes with Cyprus and Belgium. He takes over the reins from Alex McLeish who was removed from his position in April following a 3-0 defeat to Kazakhstan.
‘It is an honour,’ Clarke said. ‘I firmly believe we have a talented group of players who can achieve success on the international stage. I look forward to working with them and helping them to fulfill those ambitions. Steve Clarke agrees to become Scotland manager, taking the reins on a three-year deal.
He paid tribute to the Kilmarnock faithful in last game at Rugby Road.
Through a message that read ‘I appreciate the Scotland supporters have waited a long time for the national team to qualify for a major tournament.
“Now we have a Women’s World Cup to look forward to in France this summer and it’s my motivation to emulate the success of Shelley Kerr and her squad by leading us to Euro 2020.
“I believe we can qualify and look forward to that journey with the players and the fans, starting against Cyprus and Belgium next month.”
