FOOTBALL
Scotland to drink in Euro 2024 fan fervour after England mistake
Manager Steve Clarke discusses his side’s preparations and programme before this summer’s international tournament
Clarke admitted it was a mistake to be based in England for Euro 2020
IAN MACNICOL/GETTY IMAGES
It was essential for the Scotland players, management and staff to be in a bubble during Euro 2020 but at the time a decision was taken to distance themselves from more than just Covid-19.
Steve Clarke had the final say on basing the group in another country for the tournament, across the border into the northeast of England. Little did he know the effect that would have by minimising contact with something tangible and precious too. It took them away from the mood in Scotland.
There are not even 175 miles between Glasgow and Darlington but it was Clarke’s decision to pick Rockliffe Hall in Co Durham as Scotland’s training base. The Darlington headquarters had everything Clarke thought they needed — fine pitches, facilities, luxurious
