Scotland

[CockneyRebel]

Below a very good read from Ewan Murray in the Guardian. When will these clowns (SFA) do something in the best interests of scottish football for a change.

:saltireflag

Long before Sunday lunchtime the noise and conspiracy attached to a meeting of Celtic and Rangers will have reduced Scotland’s humiliation in Kazakhstan to an afterthought, which is precisely the way those presiding over the national team want it.


Any self-respecting governing body would have jettisoned Alex McLeish after the 3-0 defeat in Astana. Instead, the manager was left to reflect on a “bright start” – Scotland were 2-0 down after 10 minutes – as his paymasters began their latest game of hide and seek. By the time Scotland’s travelling circus reached San Marino, McLeish was unwilling to “dwell on history”.


Scotland managed to be even more abject for long spells against the side at the foot of the world rankings. It would be an act of gross negligence if the Scottish Football Association allowed its A-team to sleepwalk through another qualifying group, rather than try to rectify what is possibly a retrievable situation.


That McLeish’s second tenure will not end satisfactorily has been clear for some time. There will be no great revival. Scotland are bereft of organisation, inspiration and strategy. Excuse after excuse fails to mask glaring underperformance. The shortage of belief is a pounding noise the Scottish FA should not ignore. The Tartan Army, hardly a rebellious lot, were in mutiny mode during the San Marino slog on Sunday.


Contrary to occasional opinion, McLeish has been afforded a far easier ride than could have been forthcoming. Just ask Berti Vogts, George Burley or Craig Levein (one was castigated for his tie, another for donning a certain type of eyewear).


McLeish is a symptom of grim Scottish football governance. The same applies to his coaching staff: Peter Grant was heard barking relentless orders to players presumably incapable of independent thought against the might of San Marino.


The solution is within 20 miles of the Scottish FA’s Hampden Park bunker. It should move heaven and earth to coax Steve Clarke from Kilmarnock, even at the culmination of this domestic season and thereby before Scotland take on Cyprus in June. Clarke’s man‑management, back-to-basics approach, refusal to stand on ceremony with players or media and experience at loftier levels mean his candidature is a no-brainer.


The trouble is, we have no reason to have faith in the Scottish FA’s willingness or ability to act appropriately. This is an organisation where, among other classics, the performance director, Malky Mackay, booms instructions at under-19 and under-21 international games despite not being on the coaching staff. The Scottish FA approached Walter Smith to ascertain whether he would be willing to discuss the manager’s role pre-McLeish, only to delay the follow-up so long the 71-year-old removed himself from the equation so as to enjoy a family holiday.


Its board is dominated by the squabbling of two factions: the longtime association types and those peddling the wishes of clubs via the Scottish Professional Football League. This is a league which retains a dull four-times-a-season format to safeguard one fixture – between Rangers and Celtic – allows plastic pitches in the top flight, commands awful television deals and thinks, as per Saturday, a “domestic” cup final between Ross County and Connah’s Quay Nomads represents innovation.


Perhaps club representatives will logically pursue their own missions as part of the SFA board. The biggest in the country are the worst at operating in Machiavellian style from the shadows. But when they do, the position of the Scottish national team – including the coaching staff – will not prosper. If the SFA continues to dance to a club tune, where politics overshadow a greater good, nothing will improve meaningfully.


Scotland suffers from a domestic obsession, where the league itself fuels a duopoly. The same does not occur in Northern Ireland, for example. There, as in Norway, the Republic of Ireland, Iceland, Belgium and Wales the biggest clubs do not tower above the national side. Scotland’s Old Firm narrative is all‑consuming and, arguably, harmful.


Received wisdom points fingers at Alan McRae and Rod Petrie, time‑honoured SFA board members, for this McLeish fiasco. That duo were, indeed, needlessly hasty when pushing McLeish forward after talks with Michael O’Neill collapsed. The admission of McRae, the president, that McLeish was a friend of 30 years, whose testimonial committee he had chaired, was a monumental public relations blunder.


Yet McRae and Petrie should not be at the forefront of policy; they have become soft targets. Others are handsomely rewarded to lead; instead, they vanish down rabbit holes. In Ian Maxwell and Neil Doncaster, Scotland has administrators paid six‑figure sums to run the game at the SFA and SPFL respectively. Doncaster sits on the SFA board. The Englishman probably cannot believe his luck; when the hapless SPL was reconfigured in 2013, he kept his job. Maxwell was plucked from relegation-bound Partick Thistle. The sense prevailed then, as now, that Maxwell was catapulted forward to safeguard the interests of clubs. It is easy to make the case that his tenure has been disastrous to date.


Scotland’s national team remain without a sponsor. Clubs give a good impression of regarding the international side as at best an afterthought and at worst an inconvenience. All the while, Scotland slide further down their own national consciousness to the point of irrelevance. If the SFA persists with McLeish it will be embarrassed by tens of thousands of empty seats when Cyprus come to town on 8 June. And rightly so: if those termed “custodians” of the game do not demonstrate a care for its wellbeing, why should anybody subsidise their folly?


Wow! No punches pulled there.

[skyhibs]

Wow! No punches pulled there.

Spot on though.... makes me wonder if there might be a boycott for the Cyprus game

[SHODAN]

The fact that Petrie is the "heir" to the presidency (and has been for years) - rather than, y'know, an informed selection process where they pick objectively the best candidate - is another indictment of the SFA and their pathetic old boys club. Only way the TA can do anything about it is vote with their feet, and a boycott of the Cyprus game would be a great idea. We're not going to qualify anyway and if McLeish is in charge we probably won't win.

The Cyprus game is near my birthday and I was considering asking for tickets as a present but they can get stuffed now unless there is real change before the game. Steve Clarke is staring them in the face but they don't want to sack their mate/shell out more money.

[One Day Soon]

Below a very good read from Ewan Murray in the Guardian. When will these clowns (SFA) do something in the best interests of scottish football for a change.

:saltireflag

Long before Sunday lunchtime the noise and conspiracy attached to a meeting of Celtic and Rangers will have reduced Scotland’s humiliation in Kazakhstan to an afterthought, which is precisely the way those presiding over the national team want it.


Any self-respecting governing body would have jettisoned Alex McLeish after the 3-0 defeat in Astana. Instead, the manager was left to reflect on a “bright start” – Scotland were 2-0 down after 10 minutes – as his paymasters began their latest game of hide and seek. By the time Scotland’s travelling circus reached San Marino, McLeish was unwilling to “dwell on history”.


Scotland managed to be even more abject for long spells against the side at the foot of the world rankings. It would be an act of gross negligence if the Scottish Football Association allowed its A-team to sleepwalk through another qualifying group, rather than try to rectify what is possibly a retrievable situation.


That McLeish’s second tenure will not end satisfactorily has been clear for some time. There will be no great revival. Scotland are bereft of organisation, inspiration and strategy. Excuse after excuse fails to mask glaring underperformance. The shortage of belief is a pounding noise the Scottish FA should not ignore. The Tartan Army, hardly a rebellious lot, were in mutiny mode during the San Marino slog on Sunday.


Contrary to occasional opinion, McLeish has been afforded a far easier ride than could have been forthcoming. Just ask Berti Vogts, George Burley or Craig Levein (one was castigated for his tie, another for donning a certain type of eyewear).


McLeish is a symptom of grim Scottish football governance. The same applies to his coaching staff: Peter Grant was heard barking relentless orders to players presumably incapable of independent thought against the might of San Marino.


The solution is within 20 miles of the Scottish FA’s Hampden Park bunker. It should move heaven and earth to coax Steve Clarke from Kilmarnock, even at the culmination of this domestic season and thereby before Scotland take on Cyprus in June. Clarke’s man‑management, back-to-basics approach, refusal to stand on ceremony with players or media and experience at loftier levels mean his candidature is a no-brainer.


The trouble is, we have no reason to have faith in the Scottish FA’s willingness or ability to act appropriately. This is an organisation where, among other classics, the performance director, Malky Mackay, booms instructions at under-19 and under-21 international games despite not being on the coaching staff. The Scottish FA approached Walter Smith to ascertain whether he would be willing to discuss the manager’s role pre-McLeish, only to delay the follow-up so long the 71-year-old removed himself from the equation so as to enjoy a family holiday.


Its board is dominated by the squabbling of two factions: the longtime association types and those peddling the wishes of clubs via the Scottish Professional Football League. This is a league which retains a dull four-times-a-season format to safeguard one fixture – between Rangers and Celtic – allows plastic pitches in the top flight, commands awful television deals and thinks, as per Saturday, a “domestic” cup final between Ross County and Connah’s Quay Nomads represents innovation.


Perhaps club representatives will logically pursue their own missions as part of the SFA board. The biggest in the country are the worst at operating in Machiavellian style from the shadows. But when they do, the position of the Scottish national team – including the coaching staff – will not prosper. If the SFA continues to dance to a club tune, where politics overshadow a greater good, nothing will improve meaningfully.


Scotland suffers from a domestic obsession, where the league itself fuels a duopoly. The same does not occur in Northern Ireland, for example. There, as in Norway, the Republic of Ireland, Iceland, Belgium and Wales the biggest clubs do not tower above the national side. Scotland’s Old Firm narrative is all‑consuming and, arguably, harmful.


Received wisdom points fingers at Alan McRae and Rod Petrie, time‑honoured SFA board members, for this McLeish fiasco. That duo were, indeed, needlessly hasty when pushing McLeish forward after talks with Michael O’Neill collapsed. The admission of McRae, the president, that McLeish was a friend of 30 years, whose testimonial committee he had chaired, was a monumental public relations blunder.


Yet McRae and Petrie should not be at the forefront of policy; they have become soft targets. Others are handsomely rewarded to lead; instead, they vanish down rabbit holes. In Ian Maxwell and Neil Doncaster, Scotland has administrators paid six‑figure sums to run the game at the SFA and SPFL respectively. Doncaster sits on the SFA board. The Englishman probably cannot believe his luck; when the hapless SPL was reconfigured in 2013, he kept his job. Maxwell was plucked from relegation-bound Partick Thistle. The sense prevailed then, as now, that Maxwell was catapulted forward to safeguard the interests of clubs. It is easy to make the case that his tenure has been disastrous to date.


Scotland’s national team remain without a sponsor. Clubs give a good impression of regarding the international side as at best an afterthought and at worst an inconvenience. All the while, Scotland slide further down their own national consciousness to the point of irrelevance. If the SFA persists with McLeish it will be embarrassed by tens of thousands of empty seats when Cyprus come to town on 8 June. And rightly so: if those termed “custodians” of the game do not demonstrate a care for its wellbeing, why should anybody subsidise their folly?


That is an excellent piece and is right on the money. It will therefore be completely ignored.

I had a completely unrelated meeting recently with someone who has been involved (from an external position) with both the SFA and SPL at the highest level. Unfortunately I cannot repeat the stuff that they were talking about in case their identity became clear. Suffice it to say that the kinds of things they were revealing made clear that there is absolutely zero hope - zero - of those organisations and Scottish football more widely transforming itself with both the current structures and current personnel in place.

This must be one of the last bastions of blazered wagon-circling in the country which can still get away with it because no serious daylight falls upon their activities. They are protected by the self-interest that puts them there in the first place - as long as they don't rock the boat, the boat doesn't rock them.

This side of a sustained international games boycott there will be no change. They'd rather keep appointing and then sacking a succession of whipping boy stooges than openly admit and confront the problems with our game. It's far easier to do that even at great expense because then no vested interests have to be confronted and those vested interests are what ensures they stay in place with their large salaries, positions of privilege and truly spectacular failure rate.

Scottish football, the 1950s land that time forgot.

[SHODAN]

Arsenal apparently after Ryan Fraser. Couple that with Tottenham after Tierney and Robertson now vying for best left back in the world, do we really have any excuse? We now have the "top players" that was our excuse for years.

[theonlywayisup]

Arsenal apparently after Ryan Fraser. Couple that with Tottenham after Tierney and Robertson now vying for best left back in the world, do we really have any excuse? We now have the "top players" that was our excuse for years.

Would be an amazing opportunity for Fraser, if it comes of. I doubt that he would get as much game time at Arsenal, which could be counter productive for Scotland.

https://talksport.com/football/521050/arsenal-transfer-news-bournemouth-ryan-fraser/

[theonlywayisup]

Scotland's disappointing start to their Euro 2020 qualification campaign under Alex McLeish will be discussed at a Scottish FA board meeting tomorrow.

Wonder if they'll agree that a change is needed or whether it's to keep plodding on as is. :rolleyes:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47962594

[Scottie]

Scotland's disappointing start to their Euro 2020 qualification campaign under Alex McLeish will be discussed at a Scottish FA board meeting tomorrow.

Wonder if they'll agree that a change is needed or whether it's to keep plodding on as is. :rolleyes:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47962594
Plod plod IMO but if they do get rid for health reasons or performance related reasons I haven't a clue who they would choose to take the country forward. :dunno:

[Here’s Lucy!]

Peter Grant, 'It's been a great week apart from the result,"
Says it all really. Absolute welt.



It's almost impossible to say when there's a single quotation at the start and a double quotation at the end, along with a random comma.

:greengrin Didn't like to say...

[Mixu62]

Plod plod IMO but if they do get rid for health reasons or performance related reasons I haven't a clue who they would choose to take the country forward. :dunno:

Isn't changing the manager when things go (predictably) bad a bit like re-arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic? Not only will no decent manager want to touch the job with a ten foot barge pole, but it'll be the same old group of players the new man has to work with. Players who are the product of a system that is utterly failing, thanks to the SFA/SPFL blazers. What will it take to change things? How bad does it have to get?

[BILLYHIBS]

There was me thinking the SFA had simply brushed the last two disappointing results under the carpet

I never like to see anyone losing their job

Lets wait and see what happens

:dunno:

[we are hibs]

Scot Gemmill..

[SHODAN]

Rumour that he's going to lose his job but the new guy won't be Steve Clarke as Fulham are after him.

[Stuart93]

Isn't changing the manager when things go (predictably) bad a bit like re-arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic? Not only will no decent manager want to touch the job with a ten foot barge pole, but it'll be the same old group of players the new man has to work with. Players who are the product of a system that is utterly failing, thanks to the SFA/SPFL blazers. What will it take to change things? How bad does it have to get?

Unless it’s alex McLeish, today

[Frazerbob]

Scot Gemmill..

Nailed on and totally underwhelming. The new gaffer’s 2 most pressing jobs are to get the players fired up and actually wanting to play for their country and him and to get the fans re-engaged. Gemmill wouldn’t do either.

We have the players, we need a manager to get them to want to play for Scotland.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Nailed on and totally underwhelming. The new gaffer’s 2 most pressing jobs are to get the players fired up and actually wanting to play for their country and him and to get the fans re-engaged. Gemmill wouldn’t do either.

We have the players, we need a manager to get them to want to play for Scotland.

Most, myself included, said the same about England & Southgate....

[SteveHFC]

SFA have announced McLeish has left his role.

[Billy Whizz]

SFA have announced McLeish has left his role.

Backroom staff gone as well. Hope they have someone in mind

[SteveHFC]

Backroom staff gone as well. Hope they have someone in mind

Don't know if i can trust the SFA to appoint someone.

[Billy Whizz]

Don't know if i can trust the SFA to appoint someone.

Ian Maxwell is a football man, and he didn’t appt McLeish

[BILLYHIBS]

Not that old chestnut “mutual consent.”

[cleanyman]

Petrie next please

Then the whole lot of them

[Brightside]

No one outside of the SFA is going to want the job. So I imagine it will go to Scott. Fwiw he is a great coach and one of the few I’d actually listen to from that mob.

[Frazerbob]

Ian Maxwell is a football man, and he didn’t appt McLeish

Correct. He actually talks a lot of sense but arrived too late. He needs to be given to powers to lead instead of working as part of this committee set-up. It’s not a bowling club FFS.

[Sir David Gray]

Getting rid of McLeish is only part of the issue, there are far deeper problems within the SFA that have been ongoing for many years and until they are addressed no real improvements will ever be made.

[delbert]

Getting rid of McLeish is only part of the issue, there are far deeper problems within the SFA that have been ongoing for many years and until they are addressed no real improvements will ever be made.

McLeish’s sacking reported on BBC news as the sixth story in their headlines, just shows the status of our national side now, we are a global joke and not a very funny one.

[lapsedhibee]

Will the SFA feel able to wait until the end of the season, when Potter should become available again? :dunno:

[The Modfather]

Getting rid of McLeish is only part of the issue, there are far deeper problems within the SFA that have been ongoing for many years and until they are addressed no real improvements will ever be made.

Yep, the SFA is very much like Hibs before Dempster arrived. Butcher was a disaster but he was only a part of the reason we got relegated as it had been coming for years.

Same with McLeish, Strachan etc, their failures are not the root cause of where we are today. A root and branch clear out of the SFA is what’s needed and 2 or 3 decades overdue.

[cabbageandribs1875]

i wonder how much this latest 'mutual' will cost the SFA, just as well they are awash with cash :rolleyes: this won't change anything



Next

[ancient hibee]

Correct. He actually talks a lot of sense but arrived too late. He needs to be given to powers to lead instead of working as part of this committee set-up. It’s not a bowling club FFS.

He’s the Old Firms man .

[Ozyhibby]

Petrie, Macrae and Maxwell will be pouring over a shortlist of Stuart McCall, Billy Davies and John Hughes as we speak.



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[southsider]

Scot Gemmill..

Was 16/1 this morning now as low as 1/3 with some bookies, Some one lumping on big style?

[Deansy]

Correct. He actually talks a lot of sense but arrived too late. He needs to be given to powers to lead instead of working as part of this committee set-up. It’s not a bowling club FFS.


It's run like one, though !

[Scorrie]

Heckingbottom is 66-1 😂

[Billy Whizz]

Was 16/1 this morning now as low as 1/3 with some bookies, Some one lumping on big style?

Possibly short term

[green day]

Petrie next please

Im not sure he has the credentials to lead the Scotland National Team, tbf

[Smartie]

Im not sure he has the credentials to lead the Scotland National Team, tbf

His ability to soak up abuse would come in useful.

[Fife-Hibee]

Getting rid of McLeish is only part of the issue, there are far deeper problems within the SFA that have been ongoing for many years and until they are addressed no real improvements will ever be made.

Petrie oot! :offski:

[Wakeyhibee]

I think Gemmill is a stick on favourite. They can't go down the old boy route again this early. Foreign manager didn't go that well as I recall.

So they are only left with promote from within and will probably cite Southgate as an example. If it goes tits up they can say they tried a new approach.

[The 90+2]

They will go with the person likely to give us the best chance to reach the Euros with games being played at Hampden and will get players to stop calling off. That guy is Moyes. Absolute shoe-in.

[Steven79]

They will go with the person likely to give us the best chance to reach the Euros with games being played at Hampden and will get players to stop calling off. That guy is Moyes. Absolute shoe-in.

Moyes is ***** and would be hopeless!

[The 90+2]

Moyes is ***** and would be hopeless!

How’s he ***** exactly? He’s a manager who’s been at the very highest level and most recently kept West Ham in the Premiership. Let’s go for unrest cheap option instead then?

[Steven79]

How’s he ***** exactly? He’s a manager who’s been at the very highest level and most recently kept West Ham in the Premiership. Let’s go for unrest cheap option instead then?

Moyes is a self serving ****er with mates in the media who keep praising him up.

He would be a disaster as manager of Scotland.....

[stokesmessiah]

I really hope that they look further afield to find the next manager. I really don't get this argument that it didnt work out with Berti so therefore it won't work with any foreign manager.

[The 90+2]

Moyes is a self serving ****er with mates in the media who keep praising him up.

He would be a disaster as manager of Scotland.....

I don’t know how you can draw they conclusions but fair enough.

[stokesmessiah]

I don’t know how you can draw they conclusions but fair enough.

Ho done a decent job at Everton - hasn't worked for him anywhere else.

[HAZ2000]

Slaven Bilic?

[Smartie]

I don’t know how you can draw they conclusions but fair enough.

He might support Sunderland.

Moyes is not popular there.

And before you can get the words "basket case" out there, he's as culpable as anyone of turning them into that.

I'd be gutted if Moyes got the Scotland job.

[hfc rd]

Sacking McLeish changes nothing. We’ve been in this position before on countless occasions. We could hire Pep Guardiola or SAF as McLeish’s successor and it will be the same ****, nothing new.

The root of the problems is at the top of our game.

[easty]

Ho done a decent job at Everton - hasn't worked for him anywhere else.

He done a more than decent job at Everton, and the same at Preston before that.

I don't particularly want him as Scotland manager, but he's no the diddy manager, who only gets jobs cos of his pals in the media, that some people like to make out.

[theonlywayisup]

Cathro :offski:

[bingo70]

I hope we go for some foreign boy I’ve barely heard of with Darren Fletcher as assistant to learn the ropes witha. View to taking over in a few years.

Suspect it’ll be between Moyes and Gemmill though.

If Lambert becomes unemployed at any point soon he’ll have a great chance of getting it.

[The 90+2]

Ho done a decent job at Everton - hasn't worked for him anywhere else.

He done an absolutely amazing job at Everton after doing a brilliant job at Preston, he also kept West Ham up which was his job. 2 or 3 haven’t went his way including the biggest club in the world living up to the greatest manager of all time. I don’t think Scotland is above his level or the players he would be coaching more importantly.

[Smartie]

Sacking McLeish changes nothing. We’ve been in this position before on countless occasions. We could hire Pep Guardiola or SAF as McLeish’s successor and it will be the same ****, nothing new.

The root of the problems is at the top of our game.

I agree that there are other issues in our game but serious questions needing asking about how much McLeish was able to get out of all of the available players.

Players would turn up for International duty under the right manager. The team would go out with an obvious gameplan. The best performances would be achieved from those who turned up.

We've seen at Hibs what a difference a managerial change can make. Many of us were dazzled by Lennon's reputation but he wasn't cutting it any longer. A new man has come in, played his strongest team, kept selections consistent and got important figures onside. These are exactly the type of changes we are looking for a Scotland manager to make.

The blazers are a problem, but they should not be enough of a direct problem to stop players like McTominay, Robertson, Fraser, McGinn, Snodgrass and Forrest from turning up and putting in decent performances for Scotland.

[LeithMike]

He done a more than decent job at Everton, and the same at Preston before that.

I don't particularly want him as Scotland manager, but he's no the diddy manager, who only gets jobs cos of his pals in the media, that some people like to make out.That's true but the common perception of him is that he sets up teams to work hard and be difficult to beat. I think that approach is becoming a bit outdated in England now with the high number of continental coaches playing high tempo attacking football.

In order to qualify for a tournament and develop in the long term, Scotland need a progressive manager. I dont think Moyes quite fits this bill but I am sure he would make Scotland more organised in the short-term. Much more is needed though.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

[Smartie]

That's true but the common perception of him is that he sets up teams to work hard and be difficult to beat. I think that approach is becoming a bit outdated in England now with the high number of continental coaches playing high tempo attacking football.

In order to qualify for a tournament and develop in the long term, Scotland need a progressive manager. I dont think Moyes quite fits this bill but I am sure he would make Scotland more organised in the short-term. Much more is needed though.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

Playing ultra-negative defensive football with crap defenders would be a recipe for disaster.

[The 90+2]

That's true but the common perception of him is that he sets up teams to work hard and be difficult to beat. I think that approach is becoming a bit outdated in England now with the high number of continental coaches playing high tempo attacking football.

In order to qualify for a tournament and develop in the long term, Scotland need a progressive manager. I dont think Moyes quite fits this bill but I am sure he would make Scotland more organised in the short-term. Much more is needed though.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

I’ll take the qualifying then the long term any day of the week considering the chance we have. If we are hard to beat against Russia and Holland even the Khazaks I’ll be delighted.

[marinello59]

If Moyes is the answer the SFA are asking the wrong question again.

[stokesmessiah]

If Moyes is the answer the SFA are asking the wrong question again.

Correct.

[hibbyfraelibby]

What's the betting on Lennon not getting the Celtic gig and then appointed Scotland manager?

[ancient hibee]

What's the betting on Lennon not getting the Celtic gig and then appointed Scotland manager?
What is it now?Six weeks till the next games?Don’t think it would fit the timescale.

[The 90+2]

What's the betting on Lennon not getting the Celtic gig and then appointed Scotland manager?

Well the failed Bolton manager on his way out at us before getting bumped out the permanent Celtic job would certainly be better than Moyes in some fantasy world.

[SHODAN]

If it's Moyes then look forward to an unveiling press conference of "I think people have tae be realistic and accept we're no' very good and probably wilnae qualify fur anything anytime soon" followed by exactly what was promised.

[Billy Whizz]

If it's Moyes then look forward to an unveiling press conference of "I think people have tae be realistic and accept we're no' very good and probably wilnae qualify fur anything anytime soon" followed by exactly what was promised.

No thanks Moyes

[Hibeesmad]

Scott Gemmill as interim and then a move for Alex Neil or Derek McInnes in the summer is my prediction

[SouthMoroccoStu]

I’d entertain Alex Neil as a shout

[heretoday]

Colin Calderwood - this is your time.

[cabbageandribs1875]

I’d entertain Alex Neil as a shout


just signed a new 3 year deal at Preston, the SFA are skint

[Onceinawhile]

Shelley kerr after the summer.

[Souter96Mac]

Honestly think we need a fresh perspective, something different. I'd go Shelley Kerr.

[ScottB]

If it was up to me, we need to abandon the club manager merrygoround type suggestions. Looking at England, did Southgate have a sparkling reputation? Nope. He was a good coach, passionate for the job, and had experience in the setup with a young squad coming through.

I think that's what we need to be doing, and getting that in place, so coaches work through the age groups, eventually graduating into the full team together. Being able to motivate and man manage the squad seems particularly important in international football, so I think that'd work better than parachuting in whatever Scottish manager happens to be out of work at the time of asking.

So yeah, I'd be trying to get good young Scottish coaches into the system now, at whichever level, Gemmill, Booth, Kennedy etc.

[Keith_M]

Finally, they've seen sense.


Although I have no confidence they'll appoint a decent replacement.

[SHODAN]

Honestly think we need a fresh perspective, something different. I'd go Shelley Kerr.

I think Shelley Kerr would be a good appointment, but she won't want to leave the women's side until after the World Cup and we need someone in now.

[Stonewall]

Looking on the positive side; at least he’ll be able to settle a decent proportion of his EBT tax bill.

[Besties Debut]

He done an absolutely amazing job at Everton 11 years of mid table mediocrity springs to mind before ''absolutely amazing''

[The 90+2]

11 years of mid table mediocrity springs to mind before ''absolutely amazing''

Relegation candidates year in year out to champions league while getting all his best players sold and a piss poor budget. Has Alex Neil done a better job at Preston than Moyes did? Neil sacked off and relegated by Norwich too. I think he’s a brilliant upcoming coach but how people can write Moyes the chosen successor to Sir Alex out because of Sunderland but want Neil is baffling.

[007]

Shelley kerr after the summer.

I'm half expecting Budge to appoint her, after Scotland are out, as Levein's replacement.

[Smartie]

Relegation candidates year in year out to champions league while getting all his best players sold and a piss poor budget. Has Alex Neil done a better job at Preston than Moyes did? Neil sacked off and relegated by Norwich too. I think he’s a brilliant upcoming coach but how people can write Moyes the chosen successor to Sir Alex out because of Sunderland but want Neil is baffling.

Moyes did well at Preston and Everton. He achieved what he was employed to do at West Ham.

Sunderland was a disaster, he didn't do great at Man U (under difficult circumstances) and by all accounts he was a disaster at Sociedad.

He's had his ups and downs but isn't really adored anywhere. I don't understand how you can get so excited by him.

[Sammy7nil]

I think Shelley Kerr would be a good appointment, but she won't want to leave the women's side until after the World Cup and we need someone in now.

We definitely don't need someone now we need a temp manager until after we draw with Cyprus and get gubbed by Belgium. Then the new guy has a chance to start well and win the play off.

[The 90+2]

Moyes did well at Preston and Everton. He achieved what he was employed to do at West Ham.

Sunderland was a disaster, he didn't do great at Man U (under difficult circumstances) and by all accounts he was a disaster at Sociedad.

He's had his ups and downs but isn't really adored anywhere. I don't understand how you can get so excited by him.

I’m not excited don’t get me wrong. The alternatives have no credible claim though. McInnes sacked off Bristol City, Clarke a good few teams and so on. Moyes has managed at the top level very recently.

[Alex Trager]

I’d like to see Clarke get it.
He knows how to get more than the best out of a squad.

[heretoday]

Just get the players together and tell them to work it out themselves. Couldn't do any worse.

[Doh Rae Me]

Clarke for me, dunno if he'd be interested though, so probably Moyse who actually came up as 'No use' on auto correct on my phone.

[Scottie]

I’d like to see Clarke get it.
He knows how to get more than the best out of a squad.
Some Reports down here in the south are he's a stick on for the Fulham job in the summer.

[McSwanky]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47983374

Easiest quiz ever I thought.

Got 8 no bother at all. Then I drew a total blank on the two between Smith (or rather McLeish mark I) and Strachan. I guess I've wiped that from my memory!

How could I forget 4-6-0? [emoji23]

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

[Famous Fiver]

The Still Game boys are free now as far as I know.

Selection committee meetings in the Clansman please.

We can't possibly do any worse.

[Onion]

Watch out for a cheap shunt of MacKay or Gemmill with the aim of appointing them perm if they win a couple of matches. SFA, Petrie and all have a horrendous record of making decisions and will be praying this holding appointment removes the problem.

[The 90+2]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/47983374

Easiest quiz ever I thought.

Got 8 no bother at all. Then I drew a total blank on the two between Smith (or rather McLeish mark I) and Strachan. I guess I've wiped that from my memory!

How could I forget 4-6-0? [emoji23]

Sent from my COL-L29 using Tapatalk

Got the 10 was stuck on one for ages.

[Eyrie]

9/10, missing only 2008-09.

[pontius pilate]

8/10 not tok bad I thought

[Onceinawhile]

10/10 with 58 second left. Struggled with stein and Roxburgh.

[Sir David Gray]

9/10 for me, forgot about George Burley.

[hfc rd]

9/10 for me.

Didn’t get Roxburgh

[The 90+2]

10/10 with 58 second left. Struggled with stein and Roxburgh.

I got stuck on Sir Alex. He was a temp though 😁

[The 90+2]

9/10 for me, forgot about George Burley.

It’s alright, Burley struggled to remember Burley too.

[theonlywayisup]

Alex McLeish's successor as national team boss could be appointed within fortnight

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/48107816

Former United States head coach Bruce Arena is believed to be under consideration for the job, while Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes, Kilmarnock's Steve Clarke and former Everton and Manchester United boss David Moyes have also been linked with the position.

Excited or not!

[PatHead]

Alex McLeish's successor as national team boss could be appointed within fortnight

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/48107816

Former United States head coach Bruce Arena is believed to be under consideration for the job, while Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes, Kilmarnock's Steve Clarke and former Everton and Manchester United boss David Moyes have also been linked with the position.

Excited or not!

Any of them would be better than McLeish. Not much of a challenge though.

Would prefer Clarke

[bingo70]

Any of them would be better than McLeish. Not much of a challenge though.

Would prefer Clarke

There’s absolutely no doubting the job Steve Clarke has done at Killie, I just can not take to the man at all.

Suspect if he does get the job he’ll be counting down the months until a decent job In England comes up.

[offshorehibby]

Maybe they should hire Leeann to find somebody 😁

[HoboHarry]

Maybe they should hire Leeann to find somebody 😁

Shoosh ya bam......😁

[SHODAN]

Alex McLeish's successor as national team boss could be appointed within fortnight

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/48107816

Former United States head coach Bruce Arena is believed to be under consideration for the job, while Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes, Kilmarnock's Steve Clarke and former Everton and Manchester United boss David Moyes have also been linked with the position.

Excited or not!

It'll be Moyes.

[Larry Burns]

Yup, I think it will be Moyes as well

Foreign is far too out the box thinking for the SFA

Clarke isn't a Yes man so doesn't suit SFA

And McInnes too comfy on an unreal salary at Aberdeen

[ancient hibee]

Yup, I think it will be Moyes as well

Foreign is far too out the box thinking for the SFA

Clarke isn't a Yes man so doesn't suit SFA

And McInnes too comfy on an unreal salary at Aberdeen

Berti Vogts was from Clydebank I suppose.

[Paisley Hibby]

What about Alan Stubbs?

[Larry Burns]

Berti Vogts was from Clydebank I suppose.

Ah yes, one Manager from outwith Scotland in 147 years really hits home that 'out of the box' thinking I was referring to

[Haymaker]

Don't think Bruce Arena would be a good choice. Reckon we'll get Moyes but Stubbs would be interesting!

[HoboHarry]

Not going to matter a damn who is appointed unless there is a complete overhaul of our game but that's not going to happen because Scottish fitba revolves around the ugly sisters. Commentator during the Spurs game yesterday was talking about the shake up that the Dutch introduced after failing to qualify for a major tournament and Iceland is another good example. Scotland fails to qualify for a major tournament for a generation and the only thing that changes is, well, errrr, nothing really.......

[Michael]

Manager won't make much difference. Players are generally lower Championship / League 1 level - so what difference will it make? We need a radical restructure.

[Billy Whizz]

Manager won't make much difference. Players are generally lower Championship / League 1 level - so what difference will it make? We need a radical restructure.

I think we’ve got a decent bunch of players, quite a few playing at the top level

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Manager won't make much difference. Players are generally lower Championship / League 1 level - so what difference will it make? We need a radical restructure.

That's not even close to being accurate.

Agree we need a radical restructure though

[The 90+2]

Manager won't make much difference. Players are generally lower Championship / League 1 level - so what difference will it make? We need a radical restructure.

No they aren’t. Perhaps the ones that wanted to play for GJP where but overall the squad is good.

[easty]

Manager won't make much difference. Players are generally lower Championship / League 1 level - so what difference will it make? We need a radical restructure.

I'm fairly critical of the national team, but what you're saying just isn't true.

Just a few from down south

Robertson - Liverpool - Prem
Frsser - Bournemouth - Prem
McTominay - Man Utd - Prem
Armstrong - Southampton - Prem
Paterson - Cardiff - Prem
Cairney - Fulham - Prem
Ritchie - Newcastle - Prem
Snodgrass - West Ham - Prem
McGinn - Villa (championship play offs)
Fleck - Sheff Utd (promoted to Premiership)
McLean - Norwich (promoted to Premiership)
Bannan - Sheff Wed (top half championship)
McBurnie - Swansea (top half championship)
Fletcher - Sheff Wed (top half championship)

[Brummie_Hibs]

We need a manager (probably Foreign) who has experience in Europe at a high level.

Getting a manager who is not even winning leagues in the Scottish Premier is going to achieve SFA.

So no to Clarke, McInnes, Stubbs, et al.

[Keith_M]

How about Levein?

[HoboHarry]

How about Levein?
Go to your room and stay there or you'll get slapped.....

[angus hibby]

According to press today, Marc Wilmots is under consideration.

[hfc rd]

I'm fairly critical of the national team, but what you're saying just isn't true.

Just a few from down south

Robertson - Liverpool - Prem
Frsser - Bournemouth - Prem
McTominay - Man Utd - Prem
Armstrong - Southampton - Prem
Paterson - Cardiff - Prem
Cairney - Fulham - Prem
Ritchie - Newcastle - Prem
Snodgrass - West Ham - Prem
McGinn - Villa (championship play offs)
Fleck - Sheff Utd (promoted to Premiership)
McLean - Norwich (promoted to Premiership)
Bannan - Sheff Wed (top half championship)
McBurnie - Swansea (top half championship)
Fletcher - Sheff Wed (top half championship)


Also Liam Cooper from Leeds Utd is Scottish and most of all is a CB. Our problem position for years!

[The 90+2]

According to press today, Marc Wilmots is under consideration.

He was **** with Belgium.

[jgl07]

I'm fairly critical of the national team, but what you're saying just isn't true.

Just a few from down south

Robertson - Liverpool - Prem
Frsser - Bournemouth - Prem
McTominay - Man Utd - Prem
Armstrong - Southampton - Prem
Paterson - Cardiff - Prem
Cairney - Fulham - Prem
Ritchie - Newcastle - Prem
Snodgrass - West Ham - Prem
McGinn - Villa (championship play offs)
Fleck - Sheff Utd (promoted to Premiership)
McLean - Norwich (promoted to Premiership)
Bannan - Sheff Wed (top half championship)
McBurnie - Swansea (top half championship)
Fletcher - Sheff Wed (top half championship)

You failed to mention that Cardiff are more or less doomed to relegation, Fulham are already down.

Robertson and Fraser, along with McGinn look the best prospects. McTominay is probably being held back by the general dysfunctionality at Old Trafford.. McBurney looks useful.

Bannan and Fletcher have never achieved their true potential.

[Eyrie]

How about Levein?

LTYF! :na na:

[we are hibs]

Also Liam Cooper from Leeds Utd is Scottish and most of all is a CB. Our problem position for years!

What is the situation with him? He seems to get great reviews down south yet is rarely involved with Scotland.

[hfc rd]

What is the situation with him? He seems to get great reviews down south yet is rarely involved with Scotland.


Your guess is as good as mines. God knows why the likes of McKenna, Souttar etc get in before him. Probably face fits. Cooper is miles better than those two. Whenever I have seen him play, it’s mind boggling why he isn’t involved. He’s one of the best defenders in the Championship. The sort of leader at the back, the national team has been crying out for.

[SouthMoroccoStu]

He was **** with Belgium.

But here he’d have talented Scottish players....

[The 90+2]

But here he’d have talented Scottish players....

Fair point 😂😂😂

[Gmack7]

what about Bardsley from Burnley, regularly playing in the premier league

[Phil MaGlass]

Heard Dick Advocaat is in the running for Scotland job.

[WeeRussell]

Also Liam Cooper from Leeds Utd is Scottish and most of all is a CB. Our problem position for years!

Had no idea he had Scottish connections - having googled he actually earned a few friendly call-ups from Strachan.

Perhaps not the answer to all our problems, but should be closer to the team than Souttar for sure :agree:

[Lancs Harp]

Tony gallacher a youngster (ex Falkirk) at Liverpool might be a player to keep and eye on and Ethan Hamilton currently on loan at Rochdale (on Uniteds books)

[GreenCastle]

I'm fairly critical of the national team, but what you're saying just isn't true.

Just a few from down south

Robertson - Liverpool - Prem
Frsser - Bournemouth - Prem
McTominay - Man Utd - Prem
Armstrong - Southampton - Prem
Paterson - Cardiff - Prem
Cairney - Fulham - Prem
Ritchie - Newcastle - Prem
Snodgrass - West Ham - Prem
McGinn - Villa (championship play offs)
Fleck - Sheff Utd (promoted to Premiership)
McLean - Norwich (promoted to Premiership)
Bannan - Sheff Wed (top half championship)
McBurnie - Swansea (top half championship)
Fletcher - Sheff Wed (top half championship)

Only really 2 or 3 players with Champions League expeirence (even that doesn't mean you are a good player ) - rest are pretty average - McGinn has potential still.

Like others have said the game needs a radical makeover. SFA needs disbanded - less Old Firm bias and the whole set up needs sorted.

Won't happen and we could appoint Pep and we will still be rubbish.

Look forward to brining this thread back up when the next manager fails and people say we have good players...:greengrin when we really don't.

[ScottB]

We have decent players, but what we have failed to do is match other smaller nations.

Many European nations can field at least one world class player, the Welsh have Bale, for example, the Belgians have a whole team full, even Iceland have produced players in that bracket. Of current Scottish players, are any world class? Andy Robertson plays at the highest level, but would he talked about as one of the best in the world at his position?

If anything, the standard of Scottish players may not have appreciably dropped, it’s that a lot of other countries have started producing players that are far better than those nations not among the top tier used to have.

[WellingtonHibby]

We have decent players, but what we have failed to do is match other smaller nations.

Many European nations can field at least one world class player, the Welsh have Bale, for example, the Belgians have a whole team full, even Iceland have produced players in that bracket. Of current Scottish players, are any world class? Andy Robertson plays at the highest level, but would he talked about as one of the best in the world at his position?

If anything, the standard of Scottish players may not have appreciably dropped, it’s that a lot of other countries have started producing players that are far better than those nations not among the top tier used to have.

I take your more general point, but I struggle to think of a better LB than AR. When Barca adjust formation to contain you, it's safe to say you're half decent..

[Smartie]

We have decent players, but what we have failed to do is match other smaller nations.

Many European nations can field at least one world class player, the Welsh have Bale, for example, the Belgians have a whole team full, even Iceland have produced players in that bracket. Of current Scottish players, are any world class? Andy Robertson plays at the highest level, but would he talked about as one of the best in the world at his position?

If anything, the standard of Scottish players may not have appreciably dropped, it’s that a lot of other countries have started producing players that are far better than those nations not among the top tier used to have.

I think Andy Robertson would now be viewed as one of the best in the world in his position. He is chosen to play his position in the first team of one of the biggest teams in the world, a team that is challenging for one of the biggest leagues in the world and he played in the Champions League final last year.

Yes, the blazers need a re-think but I honestly don't think we're far away from having a decent side. Not a great one, but certainly a decent one that should be putting in a strong challenge to qualify for competitions.

We need a manager who can get the players wanting to turn up, and someone who has some sort of cohesive plan to fit those decent players into some sort of team.

[Brightside]

So the new development league is being talked about again. This will replace the current Dev / Reserve league with the top Project Brave teams playing games against European opposition. Hibs better get a move on building that new Barn. :wink:

[HoboHarry]

We have decent players, but what we have failed to do is match other smaller nations.

Many European nations can field at least one world class player, the Welsh have Bale, for example, the Belgians have a whole team full, even Iceland have produced players in that bracket. Of current Scottish players, are any world class? Andy Robertson plays at the highest level, but would he talked about as one of the best in the world at his position?

If anything, the standard of Scottish players may not have appreciably dropped, it’s that a lot of other countries have started producing players that are far better than those nations not among the top tier used to have.
Errrr, yes.

[SHODAN]

Errrr, yes.

:agree:

Number of reputable people in the game think Robertson is now the world's best LB.

[HoboHarry]

:agree:

Number of reputable people in the game think Robertson is now the world's best LB.
I've wondered a few times what fee he would command if Liverpool were to sell him? It's not just his defensive abilities, his assist count makes him a real attacking threat too....

[bigwheel]

:agree:

Number of reputable people in the game think Robertson is now the world's best LB.

Personally, I don’t think he has the defensive level to at that very elite level...(Alba, Mendy of Lyon , perhaps even Digne from Everton I’d say is better ) everything else though is top class..he was outstanding the other night.

He must be easily a 40M+ player in the current market ...

[SHODAN]

Personally, I don’t think he has the defensive level to at that very elite level...(Alba, Mendy of Lyon , perhaps even Digne from Everton I’d say is better ) everything else though is top class..he was outstanding the other night.

He must be easily a 40M+ player in the current market ...

Try 70-80M.

One of Man City, Madrid, Barca, Juventus or PSG will be interested soon I suspect.

[HoboHarry]

Personally, I don’t think he has the defensive level to at that very elite level...(Alba, Mendy of Lyon , perhaps even Digne from Everton I’d say is better ) everything else though is top class..he was outstanding the other night.

He must be easily a 40M+ player in the current market ...
Liverpool gave him a new contract in January, in part I imagine, to prevent losing him for a fee as low as that....

[bigwheel]

Try 70-80M.

One of Man City, Madrid, Barca, Juventus or PSG will be interested soon I suspect.

You’re likely right ...amazing isn’t it. Wonder if he would turn down a Madrid ?? Can’t imagine it. They could make a movie of his rise to the top ....

Shows there is quality talent in the lower leagues. I’d like to see us look there more ...

[bigwheel]

Liverpool gave him a new contract in January, in part I imagine, to prevent losing him for a fee as low as that....

Lol @ as low as that. You are right of course ! Just mad..[emoji2]

[HoboHarry]

Lol @ as low as that. You are right of course ! Just mad..[emoji2]
Oh the ethics of these fees are another discussion no doubt about that.....

[JimBHibees]

Personally, I don’t think he has the defensive level to at that very elite level...(Alba, Mendy of Lyon , perhaps even Digne from Everton I’d say is better ) everything else though is top class..he was outstanding the other night.

He must be easily a 40M+ player in the current market ...

You are joking. :greengrin

[bigwheel]

You are joking. :greengrin

No. I’d say he is one of the top in that position in the world at the moment....

[bigwheel]

Oh the ethics of these fees are another discussion no doubt about that.....

Ha. Truth ! [emoji119]

[heretoday]

You are joking. :greengrin

Digne's good. Not quite Robertson though.

[ACLeith]

Good friend is a Dundee United fanatic. When they signed AR from Queens Park he ranted about them signing ******* amateurs. He said it took all of 15 minutes of his first game to Realise why they did

And I think he played for QP against Sevco in the 3rd division. Super Ally obviously didn't rate him compared to Lee Wallace 😀

[JimBHibees]

No. I’d say he is one of the top in that position in the world at the moment....

Dont see it to be honest, no where near it. Dont think he has particularly excelled at Everton in what I have seen.

[hfc rd]

Good friend is a Dundee United fanatic. When they signed AR from Queens Park he ranted about them signing ******* amateurs. He said it took all of 15 minutes of his first game to Realise why they did

And I think he played for QP against Sevco in the 3rd division. Super Ally obviously didn't rate him compared to Lee Wallace 😀


Nope. Robertson signed for Dundee Utd in summer 2013. Same time Sevco were about to begin their campaign in League 2 after just being founded.

[The 90+2]

Nope. Robertson signed for Dundee Utd in summer 2013. Same time Sevco had just started their campaign in League 2.

Sure they played in a cup match?

[bigwheel]

Dont see it to be honest, no where near it. Dont think he has particularly excelled at Everton in what I have seen.

Ah well. Remember where you heard it first [emoji6]

[bigwheel]

Nope. Robertson signed for Dundee Utd in summer 2013. Same time Sevco were about to begin their campaign in League 2 after just being founded.

Was he not also a reject of the Celtic academy as a youth ?

[hfc rd]

Sure they played in a cup match?


They did and the Sevco fans apparently boycotted the fixture because they were one the Premiership clubs that voted not to allow them to start in the top flight. Earn the right like every other club in Scotland to get promoted to the Scottish Premiership.

Utd spanked them that day! 😊

[hfc rd]

Was he not also a reject of the Celtic academy as a youth ?


He was, which I only just found out.

Reason for being released was because he was “too small”. 😂 Scottish mentality right there!

[bigwheel]

He was, which I only just found out.

Reason for being released was because he was “too small”. [emoji23] Scottish mentality right there!

Well said ! Exactly.

[hfc rd]

Well said ! Exactly.


Pathetic how that is even a factor. As I said, Scottish mentality right there.

If the boy is a very good player and has a lot of potential but isn’t exactly tall, his height should never be a factor. It’s how he does on the park that should be all that matters.

[bigwheel]

Pathetic how that is even a factor. As I said, Scottish mentality right there.

If the boy is a very good player and has a lot of potential but isn’t exactly tall, his height should never be a factor. It’s how he does on the park that should be all that matters.

You have to suspect that If Iniesta and xavi were Scottish they would have got emptied about 15 years old and ended up playing east of Scotland league ....

So many talents must have been lost to our game through “too small” decisions

[Mcpakeisgod]

Nope. Robertson signed for Dundee Utd in summer 2013. Same time Sevco were about to begin their campaign in League 2 after just being founded.

Sevco started in the 3rd division in aug 2012. They did meet in the Scottish 3rd division that season .

[hfc rd]

You have to suspect that If Iniesta and xavi were Scottish they would have got emptied about 15 years old and ended up playing east of Scotland league ....

So many talents must have been lost to our game through “too small” decisions



Exactly. Lionel Messi would have had no chance here to make it if his teammates were Peter Crouch & Andy Carroll.

Was thinking this the other day there, how many very good young players must have been released from clubs for this reason and just ended up giving up thinking their is no hope because they’ve been emptied with a very stupid reason that is not football related or their attitude.

[hfc rd]

Sevco started in the 3rd division in aug 2012. They did meet in the Scottish 3rd division that season .


Me bad, you are in fact correct! Thanks for rectifying!

[sambajustice]

what about Bardsley from Burnley, regularly playing in the premier league

Correct!

Time to give the young guys their chance...!!

[Smartie]

Me bad, you are in fact correct! Thanks for rectifying!

I was sure I'd heard that he'd played against Sevco 4 times that season without anyone at Ibrox twigging that he was a bit of a player?

[hibby rae]

He was, which I only just found out.

Reason for being released was because he was “too small”. 😂 Scottish mentality right there!

Pretty sure that was the same reason Pat Nevin left Celtic too.

On a side note, happened to me when I was nine and the local football coach said I was too small to play. At nine!

[ACLeith]

My DU mate did also mention that he subsequently found out Celtic had released him for the reasons stated above. Said it gave him a warm glow!

His view was that the best 2 to breakthrough for them for a long time were AR and Scott Allan. He had mixed feelings when SA did so well for us, pleased for the player but sick he wasn't wearing tangerine! In the spirit of friendship I hope he's even sicker next season 😂

[The 90+2]

They did and the Sevco fans apparently boycotted the fixture because they were one the Premiership clubs that voted not to allow them to start in the top flight. Earn the right like every other club in Scotland to get promoted to the Scottish Premiership.

Utd spanked them that day! 😊

Oh aye remember that now, was glorious 😁

[hfc rd]

Pretty sure that was the same reason Pat Nevin left Celtic too.

On a side note, happened to me when I was nine and the local football coach said I was too small to play. At nine!


That’s ridiculous!

As already mentioned, height shouldn’t be a factor to determine if a player is good enough or not. It’s all about what he does on the pitch for that should counts. Not if he’s 5ft2 or 6ft5.

[heretoday]

Ah well. Remember where you heard it first [emoji6]

Some people have obviously not watched Everton much.

Well I do and I can say that Digne is a very good player but has to tighten up his defensive duties. Last night he was posted missing on a couple of occasions. He has a long throw which is a real skill in this day and age so he's an asset for the Toffees in that alone.

He also has a powerful shot. Witness the second goal.

[pacorosssco]

Andy Robertson is a elite player at top of his game. Didn't look out of place against Barca and week in out EPL a top performer. If only we had more as good.

[MichaelBrown]

Also Liam Cooper from Leeds Utd is Scottish and most of all is a CB. Our problem position for years!

I'm a Leeds fan (born and bred, live near the City) as well as supporting Hibs who my granddad supported. Cooper has been insane this year and one of the best defenders in the league. He's a real ball playing defender, able to ping 30-40 yard passes out wide and he's pivotal to the footballing style that we have. Prior to this season he was remarkably average though and I worry whether his form will continue if Bielsa leaves.

[MichaelBrown]

Personally, I don’t think he has the defensive level to at that very elite level...(Alba, Mendy of Lyon , perhaps even Digne from Everton I’d say is better ) everything else though is top class..he was outstanding the other night.

He must be easily a 40M+ player in the current market ...

He's the best LB in the league by a country mile. Digne isn't close to Robertson.

[Godsahibby]

He was, which I only just found out.

Reason for being released was because he was “too small”. 😂 Scottish mentality right there!

He was also a centre mid at Celtic he had never played left back until he was at Queens Park and needed to cover because of injuries.

[bingo70]

Sorry, there was probably more recent threads more relevant to this topic but this was the most obvious one that came up after a search.

I see Declan Gallagher from Motherwell has been called up to replace Hanley and Cooper who have pulled out from the squad injured.
Absolutely no problem with him being selected based on merit, apparently he’s playing well so in that respect he deserves his call up.......

What I don’t really understand is, what’s the point? They were saying on the radio he’s 28 years old now and unlikely to ever break into the squad ahead if the players who are out injured.

In terms of continuity and progressing players through the ranks from under 21 upwards would it not make sense to promote Ryan Porteous through the ranks, he’d at least learn from the experience which could stand him in good stead when the time comes for him to make the move to the first team on merit?

We’ve apparently spent a lot of time and money on transitioning youth players through the age groups but we seem to be ignoring the jump from under 21’s to the first team. The same applies to Billy Gilmore at Chelsea, why isn’t he in the first team squad to ease him into the first team?

[Iggy Pope]

Sorry, there was probably more recent threads more relevant to this topic but this was the most obvious one that came up after a search.

I see Declan Gallagher from Motherwell has been called up to replace Hanley and Cooper who have pulled out from the squad injured.
Absolutely no problem with him being selected based on merit, apparently he’s playing well so in that respect he deserves his call up.......

What I don’t really understand is, what’s the point? They were saying on the radio he’s 28 years old now and unlikely to ever break into the squad ahead if the players who are out injured.

In terms of continuity and progressing players through the ranks from under 21 upwards would it not make sense to promote Ryan Porteous through the ranks, he’d at least learn from the experience which could stand him in good stead when the time comes for him to make the move to the first team on merit?

We’ve apparently spent a lot of time and money on transitioning youth players through the age groups but we seem to be ignoring the jump from under 21’s to the first team. The same applies to Billy Gilmore at Chelsea, why isn’t he in the first team squad to ease him into the first team?

I’m struggling to think who Declan Gallagher is if I’m honest. Mind you, Cooper isn’t a name that’s kicking my doors in either.

[Smartie]

Sorry, there was probably more recent threads more relevant to this topic but this was the most obvious one that came up after a search.

I see Declan Gallagher from Motherwell has been called up to replace Hanley and Cooper who have pulled out from the squad injured.
Absolutely no problem with him being selected based on merit, apparently he’s playing well so in that respect he deserves his call up.......

What I don’t really understand is, what’s the point? They were saying on the radio he’s 28 years old now and unlikely to ever break into the squad ahead if the players who are out injured.

In terms of continuity and progressing players through the ranks from under 21 upwards would it not make sense to promote Ryan Porteous through the ranks, he’d at least learn from the experience which could stand him in good stead when the time comes for him to make the move to the first team on merit?

We’ve apparently spent a lot of time and money on transitioning youth players through the age groups but we seem to be ignoring the jump from under 21’s to the first team. The same applies to Billy Gilmore at Chelsea, why isn’t he in the first team squad to ease him into the first team?

I agree with you 100% and the vast majority of Scotland fans I know also would.

Porteous and Scotland would gain loads from such a move.

The only reason I can think of that he hasn't been included is that he hasn't played an awful lot of games this year. He took a bit of time to break back into our (poor) team once fit, then immediately got suspended.

He's played well, but an outsider looking in might question whether or not it is enough to merit an international call-up?

I'm convinced Porteous will be a mainstay of the national side for the next decade and a bit, but he'll probably need to be playing his club football at Ibrox every other week to be noticed.

[Iggy Pope]

I agree with you 100% and the vast majority of Scotland fans I know also would.

Porteous and Scotland would gain loads from such a move.

The only reason I can think of that he hasn't been included is that he hasn't played an awful lot of games this year. He took a bit of time to break back into our (poor) team once fit, then immediately got suspended.

He's played well, but an outsider looking in might question whether or not it is enough to merit an international call-up?

I'm convinced Porteous will be a mainstay of the national side for the next decade and a bit, but he'll probably need to be playing his club football at Ibrox every other week to be noticed.

In a weekend of bloody horrible thoughts that one is the tin lid.

[Tyler Durden]

Sorry, there was probably more recent threads more relevant to this topic but this was the most obvious one that came up after a search.

I see Declan Gallagher from Motherwell has been called up to replace Hanley and Cooper who have pulled out from the squad injured.
Absolutely no problem with him being selected based on merit, apparently he’s playing well so in that respect he deserves his call up.......

What I don’t really understand is, what’s the point? They were saying on the radio he’s 28 years old now and unlikely to ever break into the squad ahead if the players who are out injured.

In terms of continuity and progressing players through the ranks from under 21 upwards would it not make sense to promote Ryan Porteous through the ranks, he’d at least learn from the experience which could stand him in good stead when the time comes for him to make the move to the first team on merit?

We’ve apparently spent a lot of time and money on transitioning youth players through the age groups but we seem to be ignoring the jump from under 21’s to the first team. The same applies to Billy Gilmore at Chelsea, why isn’t he in the first team squad to ease him into the first team?

Clarke name checked Porteous during the week but explained that he thinks some of the young guys are better to stay with the 21s for now.

https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/4786462/billy-gilmour-mikey-johnston-steve-clarke-rangers-celtic-scotland-squad/amp/

Declan Gallagher should’ve been a player we looked at, rather than bringing in Jackson IMO. Not dissimilar to Darren McGregor and he’s been a big scoring threat for Motherwell since his move also.

[theonlywayisup]

Said it before and I'll say it again, at boys football level we've coaches who prefer big strong boys over small more skilful boys. Yet, isn't it amazing that we are so poor at centre forward and central defence, positions that typically require big strong laddies. Why is that?

[Scorrie]

Said it before and I'll say it again, at boys football level we've coaches who prefer big strong boys over small more skilful boys. Yet, isn't it amazing that we are so poor at centre forward and central defence, positions that typically require big strong laddies. Why is that?

Spot on. I’m watching Inter v Juve and there’s some right wee players out there who are really good. For me it should be skill and technique first. Strength and conditioning can be added, talent can’t

[theonlywayisup]

For me it should be skill and technique first. Strength and conditioning can be added, talent can’t

Unfortunately, far too many good wee boys are switched off the game because of this preference for the big strong laddies.

[theonlywayisup]

Now that's looking like four defeats on the trot. Worst since 2004.

[theonlywayisup]

I've had enough of this crap. When will our footballing leaders start to sort out this mess.

[Sammy7nil]

It is not the fact they lose it is manner as soon as they lose a goal all fight,heart and belief just goes. Hard to see them beating anyone at this time.

[blackpoolhibs]

Its **** being a Hibs fan and Scottish, :rolleyes:

[Cardinal G]

Its **** being a Hibs fan and Scottish, :rolleyes:

It's even worse for me as I can add in being a sunderland season ticket holder as well.

[The Modfather]

Now that's looking like four defeats on the trot. Worst since 2004.

Has the new president of the SFA spoken at any point since he’s taken over? Other than to say that sectarianism is something the SFA also take seriously (quiet at the back) after Rangers and/or Celtc we’re fined for sectarian singing by Uefa.

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. The same faces on the same gravy train will continue doing the exact same things that have failed for the last 20 or 30 years. That will be the new regimes plan I would guess.

[theonlywayisup]

Has the new president of the SFA spoken at any point since he’s taken over? Other than to say that sectarianism is something the SFA also take seriously (quiet at the back) after Rangers and/or Celtc we’re fined for sectarian singing by Uefa.

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss. The same faces on the same gravy train will continue doing the exact same things that have failed for the last 20 or 30 years. That will be the new regimes plan I would guess.

Same circus, different clowns - that statement could have been made for the SFA.

30 years ago, I recall a national debate on TV after Scotland had failed to qualify the 1994 World Cup. Believe it or not youngsters, but we had qualified for the previous five. If I recall correctly, I'm sure it was stated at the time only Scotland and Poland had qualified from Europe for all five of those World Cups, excluding the nations that had a free entry into the World Cup either as Winners or Hosts. In no particular order, England, Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, France, Belgium & Holland are included in the list that didn't make it for at least one World Cup during that period.

I would love to see a re-run of the TV debate, which included a very youthful Gordon Strachan. I would love to see what they said at the time to improve our game. Whatever it was, it's not worked.

[theonlywayisup]

Same circus, different clowns - that statement could have been made for the SFA.

30 years ago, I recall a national debate on TV after Scotland had failed to qualify the 1994 World Cup. Believe it or not youngsters, but we had qualified for the previous five. If I recall correctly, I'm sure it was stated at the time only Scotland and Poland had qualified from Europe for all five of those World Cups, excluding the nations that had a free entry into the World Cup either as Winners or Hosts. In no particular order, England, Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, France, Belgium & Holland are included in the list that didn't make it for at least one World Cup during that period.

I would love to see a re-run of the TV debate, which included a very youthful Gordon Strachan. I would love to see what they said at the time to improve our game. Whatever it was, it's not worked.

And another point, relevant to the above.

Up to around 1990, Scotland had a relatively competitive league. Aberdeen and Dundee United were a match for any team in Scotland and competed at the later stages of European Competitions and between them must have won around 50% of the Scottish competitions up to circa 1986 in that decade.

That all changed when Rangers started to splash the cash and (if you believe the fans of the team formerly known as Rangers) saved Scottish Football.

Instead, it turned Scottish League Football into a one, sometimes, two team non-competitive league at least for the 80/90% of the teams in the league. I am fully of the opinion that the greed of one single team has killed the competitive spirit of football in our country. And guess what guys, it's happening again now with Gerrard at The Rangers.

[Baader]

Same circus, different clowns - that statement could have been made for the SFA.

30 years ago, I recall a national debate on TV after Scotland had failed to qualify the 1994 World Cup. Believe it or not youngsters, but we had qualified for the previous five. If I recall correctly, I'm sure it was stated at the time only Scotland and Poland had qualified from Europe for all five of those World Cups, excluding the nations that had a free entry into the World Cup either as Winners or Hosts. In no particular order, England, Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, France, Belgium & Holland are included in the list that didn't make it for at least one World Cup during that period.

I would love to see a re-run of the TV debate, which included a very youthful Gordon Strachan. I would love to see what they said at the time to improve our game. Whatever it was, it's not worked.

Five in a row looks an incredible achievement now given we have had over 20 years of not making a tournament. Sad when you think there are guys around their mid 20s who won't remember seeing Scotland on the Euro or World stage.

Always remember years ago an English pundit, can't remember who, being asked about the Home Nations qualification chances for France 98. He said "Scotland will be there because they always are" (I know we didn't qualify for USA 94 but it summed up how expectant we were of making finals.) Changed days indeed.

[SHODAN]

There is not a single person under the age of 21 who has been alive when Scotland qualified for a major tournament. To add to that, the only people who will actually REMEMBER it happening will be in their mid-to-late twenties.

It's unacceptable and it all stems from the greed and single-mindedness of the SFA.

[Allant1981]

Turned it off after the 2nd went in, they are just so far behind the decent teams its unreal

[SHODAN]

Here's a map of all the teams in Europe that have qualified for a major tournament since we last did (shaded green):

https://i.imgur.com/7yrrIQn.png

You'll soon be able to add one or two from Finland, Kosovo and North Macedonia to that too. :aok:

[Antifa Hibs]

Whats the feeling around the tartan army for any guys in one on here? Why they need hounding the SFA? Protests, walkouts, banners etc



The standard off football up here woeful, utterly dreadful. International and our leagues. It's embarrassingly bad. People think the £25-35 we're charged is justified aswell. We all deserve medals (every fan that pays for it) for putting up with this pish week in week out.

[SHODAN]

Whats the feeling around the tartan army for any guys in one on here? Why they need hounding the SFA? Protests, walkouts, banners etc



The standard off football up here woeful, utterly dreadful. International and our leagues. It's embarrassingly bad. People think the £25-35 we're charged is justified aswell. We all deserve medals (every fan that pays for it) for putting up with this pish week in week out.

Have the TA ever protested? I can't remember any such circumstance.

I'd be in favour of either a boycott of San Marino/Kazakhstan or a day of protest at the game instead.

[Brightside]

Scotland woman keep qualifying. It’s the future. Loads of goals and entertainment. Time to just knock the men’s game on the head.

[SHODAN]

What's happened to Callum Paterson? He genuinely seemed to be a decent right back.

[Sir David Gray]

Have the TA ever protested? I can't remember any such circumstance.

I'd be in favour of either a boycott of San Marino/Kazakhstan or a day of protest at the game instead.

Did they not hold a protest of sorts during the San Marino game earlier in this campaign?

[easty]

What's happened to Callum Paterson? He genuinely seemed to be a decent right back.

Nah.

Decent player, but not a decent right back.

[WeeRussell]

Scotland woman keep qualifying. It’s the future. Loads of goals and entertainment. Time to just knock the men’s game on the head.

Cool - just do the same with Hibs as well then?

[Onceinawhile]

Clarke name checked Porteous during the week but explained that he thinks some of the young guys are better to stay with the 21s for now.

https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/4786462/billy-gilmour-mikey-johnston-steve-clarke-rangers-celtic-scotland-squad/amp/

Declan Gallagher should’ve been a player we looked at, rather than bringing in Jackson IMO. Not dissimilar to Darren McGregor and he’s been a big scoring threat for Motherwell since his move also.

I'd rather not have a person like Declan Gallagher at the club tbh. He certainly shouldn't be getting a Scotland call up.

[Allant1981]

I'd rather not have a person like Declan Gallagher at the club tbh. He certainly shouldn't be getting a Scotland call up.

I'm guessing you are referring to his not so glamorous past, surely the guy has done his time and should be allowed to move on,for what it's worth I agree I wouldnt be giving him a scotland call up as i dont think he is that good

[blackpoolhibs]

Pinched from twitter.

I know last night was terrible but Sunday at home to San Marino is a huge game for us, if we can somehow nick a point it would mean we are safe from relegation to the Eurovision Song Contest for another year.
:greengrin

[SingaporeHibs]

Said it before and I'll say it again, at boys football level we've coaches who prefer big strong boys over small more skilful boys. Yet, isn't it amazing that we are so poor at centre forward and central defence, positions that typically require big strong laddies. Why is that?

You are absolutely correct to look at the coaches of boys clubs. The style has generally not changed for 30 odd years I’ve experienced it. From when I played to watching the boys now. The whole system needs overhauled from bottom to top. There are some great coaches out there and they spend all their life dedicated to the kids but unfortunately there are still too many idiots involved.
Even at the pro level, they sweep the net out wide and bring kids in but teach them nothing about how to play the game. We’ve created a culture that isn’t allowing kids to play and I mean just play. Get a ball and express themselves. Everything is over engineered. Training drill after drill is like watching robots do a, b, c......etc. Hour after hour of these drills and they get on a field to play a match and what do you get, sideways, sideways, backwards, Long diagonal to absolutely no one. The structure breaks down and it’s just horrific stuff. The ability to play the game properly is lost. It’s very sad.
My oldest is nearly 17, never seen Scotland in a major tournament. When I was growing up that was unthinkable. We might have been gutted to miss the odd World Cup (USA 1994 and then 1998 onwards of course) but otherwise we were always there previously.
There is no blame on technology because that’s not just happened in Scotland. The structure is broken and the SFA are at fault, 100%.
The SFA have been the custodian of our game and have dramatically failed our kids and our nation. The old firm, if I started on their failings I could be writing all night. Our game is at an all time low, failure to sell the top league, failure in Europe, failure to invest in kids, failure to ditch the rangers, failure failure failure.

[Here’s Lucy!]

Scotland 0 San Marino 1

[Billy Whizz]

So what’s the update on who Scotland will meet in the semi playoffs, and possible final play off
Thought both would be at home, but heard something on radio earlier, said if we made the final it would be away?

[660]

Pinched from twitter.

I know last night was terrible but Sunday at home to San Marino is a huge game for us, if we can somehow nick a point it would mean we are safe from relegation to the Eurovision Song Contest for another year.
:greengrin

~*~*~*~ top bantz ~*~*~*~

[Sir David Gray]

So what’s the update on who Scotland will meet in the semi playoffs, and possible final play off
Thought both would be at home, but heard something on radio earlier, said if we made the final it would be away?

It's looking like Norway, Serbia, Bulgaria and Scotland.

[Billy Whizz]

It's looking like Norway, Serbia, Bulgaria and Scotland.

Thanks
So play one of the other 3, play the winners of the other semi, in the final, all being well
How do they decide where the final is played?

[Sir David Gray]

Thanks
So play one of the other 3, play the winners of the other semi, in the final, all being well
How do they decide where the final is played?

They're apparently deciding that next month once they know all the teams.

[theonlywayisup]

Thought I would resurrect this thread to see if people agree that things are certainly improving since the OP in November 2016, or not. I then noticed PB's summary that I thought was good to share on this thread.

I agree with all that PB states and isn't it about time we ripped up what we're doing and put in place a sustainable plan to improve the nation's footballing capability, having been out-classed by a nation of 4 million.


Youth football is a huge issue for our ongoing failings. I've argued for years that professional clubs taking boys out of their club teams at 11 or 12 years old to 'develop' then helps no one in terms of football ability. It won't change though because it is entirely motivated by money, no one wants the next £2M player to end up at their rivals.

I'd argue a bigger issue is the quality of coaching though. It's hard to say this because it essentially ends up as a dig at guys giving up their own time for little to no compensation but it doesn't make it any less true. The SFA coaching pathway is rightly lauded at the higher levels but at the formative stages it's a joke. There is no accountability or assessment, turn up, nod your head and get a certificate to say you can coach children and teenagers. I done the next stage of the goalkeeper pathway during lockdown and it was all online. Watch a few videos, answer a few questions and click the mouse a few times. I'm now further qualified. Mental. Even going back to when I started the first course had guys there who should never have been awarded a qualification. They couldn't run through basic drills, struggled to answer simple questions and showed no ability to lead a session. 6 hours later they had shiny certificates and were off to coach goalkeepers up to 16 years old.

We need to remove the competitive element completely at the formative stages for young players. It just encourages bad coaches and pushy parents to do all the wrong things. I regularly watch a couple of youth teams train. One guy is horrendous. The other week after months without football he had young lads of about 10 or 11 running shuttles and was barking about fitness. They haven't played for months, give them a ****ing ball. He then lined them up in s straight line and had them make a 5 yard pass before spinning to the back of the line. He was receiving the pass. What's the point in that session? He gets 10 times as many touches as any of the players and what are they learning? On the flip side I regularly pass the all weather pitch Lochend train on and they look like they put together good sessions with loads of the ball, it can be done. Equally a couple of girls teams train near me and their sessions look very football orientated. Mini games, passing and moving and a lot of smiling and laughing. Maybe removing the macho element makes things more productive?

The point about facilities is well made as well. People hate plastic pitches but in Scotland they are a necessity for youth teams to train year round and there aren't enough of them and they are expensive to hire. A few of the cage pitches dotted about the schemes that kids could use for free as and when they wanted would be a good investment. Even if it didn't produce a single player, it's still a good societal investment.

Nothing will change though because money is at the forefront of every decision makers mind.

[The Modfather]

Thought I would resurrect this thread to see if people agree that things are certainly improving since the OP in November 2016, or not. I then noticed PB's summary that I thought was good to share on this thread.

I agree with all that PB states and isn't it about time we ripped up what we're doing and put in place a sustainable plan to improve the nation's footballing capability, having been out-classed by a nation of 4 million.

We’re two years into a new presidency at the SFA. Have we heard anything about the presidents vision or what his plans are? Or should we just continue to expect silence, keep doing as we have unsuccessfully done for the last 20 or 30 years and hope tournaments continue to be expanded, giving us a better chance of qualifying?

[Jones28]

What happened to project Brave? Is that out the window now that Mackay has gone?

[Peevemor]

What happened to project Brave? Is that out the window now that Mackay has gone?I'm guessing it will have been put on hold when the academies were closed for Covid.

[AgentDaleCooper]

Under clarke we have made progress. If we fair to qualify for the world cup, then we can start talking about ripping things up.

[Jones28]

I'm guessing it will have been put on hold when the academies were closed for Covid.

Yes of course, no surprise there. Didn’t even cross my mind.

However, what were its aims and ambitions? When were results expected?

[theonlywayisup]

When I started this thread way back in 2016, Scotland were very poor IMO. However, almost six years on, I'd say last night was as good a performance that I've seen for a long time against a good side, albeit missing their most influential player.

I recall talking to a well-respected boys coach about a decade ago, who told me that there was a good crop of young boys coming through the ranks, with improvements being made at all levels of boys football all the way to the elite teams. If I'm being honest, I was a bit dismissive. However, are we starting to see a better crop of players coming through.

We seem to have better more influential youngsters in the team - Hickey was excellent when he came on, Patterson is still very young and already has 20+ caps, Hendry was excellent, Gilmour didn't even get on the pitch. Add that players like Tierney, Fraser, Armstrong, McKenna, McTominay, Christie etc who are all playing for teams in the Premier League.

That said, we're lucky to have our 'imports' in Adams and Dykes as we they greatly enhance our team. We're also very lucky to have a manager like Steve Clarke - he knows how to build a team.

Let's hope that this is just the start :saltireflag:saltireflag:saltireflag

[Allant1981]

Actually thought hickey improved us in that area, can't fault any of the players last night and hopefully they give a similar performance at the weekend

[ronaldo7]

When I started this thread way back in 2016, Scotland were very poor IMO. However, almost six years on, I'd say last night was as good a performance that I've seen for a long time against a good side, albeit missing their most influential player.

I recall talking to a well-respected boys coach about a decade ago, who told me that there was a good crop of young boys coming through the ranks, with improvements being made at all levels of boys football all the way to the elite teams. If I'm being honest, I was a bit dismissive. However, are we starting to see a better crop of players coming through.

We seem to have better more influential youngsters in the team - Hickey was excellent when he came on, Patterson is still very young and already has 20+ caps, Hendry was excellent, Gilmour didn't even get on the pitch. Add that players like Tierney, Fraser, Armstrong, McKenna, McTominay, Christie etc who are all playing for teams in the Premier League.

That said, we're lucky to have our 'imports' in Adams and Dykes as we they greatly enhance our team. We're also very lucky to have a manager like Steve Clarke - he knows how to build a team.

Let's hope that this is just the start :saltireflag:saltireflag:saltireflag

All the boys want to play for the team these days. Back then we had players pulling out in favour of their club that you don't see now. I thought it took a while for the atmosphere to ramp up last night, hopefully Saturday will be louder. Patterson going of helped us imo, hickey gave us more cover down that side at they were overloading the left, and we were lucky not to lose something in the first half. Second half was superb with everyone doing their job.

Looking forward to Saturday. The dilemma for Clark is who does he play up front. It's Adams for me.

[Brightside]

Formation was spot on last night and got the best out of the players we have. Need to stick to that when possible.

[MartinfaePorty]

All the boys want to play for the team these days. Back then we had players pulling out in favour of their club that you don't see now. I thought it took a while for the atmosphere to ramp up last night, hopefully Saturday will be louder. Patterson going of helped us imo, hickey gave us more cover down that side at they were overloading the left, and we were lucky not to lose something in the first half. Second half was superb with everyone doing their job.

Looking forward to Saturday. The dilemma for Clark is who does he play up front. It's Adams for me.Totally agree. Atmosphere 1st half was a bit flat, but excellent 2nd. Saturday will be bouncing. Most folk will have had a few beers, weather looks decent, plenty away fans and a chance of making a huge step forward towards winning the group. Recipe for a great game (or disaster!).

Sent from my SM-S901B using Tapatalk

[nonshinyfinish]

Formation was spot on last night and got the best out of the players we have. Need to stick to that when possible.

Problem is, how do you you accommodate Tierney and Robertson in that formation?

[CapitalGreen]

Problem is, how do you you accommodate Tierney and Robertson in that formation?

You don’t. Just play the system that works best instead of shoehorning players into a less effective system. If that means Robertson is left on the bench then so be it.

[BoomtownHibees]

Problem is, how do you you accommodate Tierney and Robertson in that formation?

Robertson sits on the bench for me

[nonshinyfinish]

You don’t. Just play the system that works best instead of shoehorning players into a less effective system. If that means Robertson is left on the bench then so be it.

I agree to an extent, but I think that's easy to say when you're not the manager. Will be no problem for Clarke while results/performances are good, but a few poor games and everyone's going "why's he leaving the captain on the bench".

[BoomtownHibees]

I agree to an extent, but I think that's easy to say when you're not the manager. Will be no problem for Clarke while results/performances are good, but a few poor games and everyone's going "why's he leaving the captain on the bench".

As well as last night working really well, I think Robertson has been poor in our last few games. I get the captain point but sometimes you stumble across something that works and you need to stick with it.

Similar to your point above, if he brings him back in and we are rubbish then the question will be asked why he was brought back in

[Brummie_Hibs]

Totally agree. Atmosphere 1st half was a bit flat, but excellent 2nd.
I thought the second half was only marginally better than first.

All I can remember in first half was a lacklustre 'Flower of Scotland', in the second there was only a couple of more songs - but only once we went 2-0 up. Shame as that was one of the best second half displays I've actually witnessed at Hampden with Scotland. Saturday will be different!

NcGinn should now be permanent Captain - I think his style of football inspires more than Robertson, who, for some reason, cannot perform and be captain at the same time.

[Brightside]

Problem is, how do you you accommodate Tierney and Robertson in that formation?

has the problem been trying to build the team around those 2 players. If they can't fit into a 4231 then someone drops out..

[overdrive]

has the problem been trying to build the team around those 2 players. If they can't fit into a 4231 then someone drops out..

I agree with this. Although I think Robertson is the better player overall, I think Tierney performs better for Scotland than Robertson. Tierney will be due another injury soon anyway, so it is not as if he'll be keeping Robertson out all the time.

I do wonder if there might be repercussions for Tierney, though. It looked like he ripped the black armband for the Queen off and chucked it to the side of the pitch before kick off. I have no issue with that but I don't know if the SFA might take a different view.

[number9dream]

Totally agree. Atmosphere 1st half was a bit flat, but excellent 2nd. Saturday will be bouncing. Most folk will have had a few beers, weather looks decent, plenty away fans and a chance of making a huge step forward towards winning the group. Recipe for a great game (or disaster!).

Sent from my SM-S901B using Tapatalk

Three games in six days is a punishing schedule, so some will need a rest, but Saturday is a must-win. Of course, Tuesday could well be the same unless Ukraine drop points in Armenia and we win again at Hampden.
It will be interesting to see how Steve Clarke uses his squad and Tierney in particular. Greg Taylor is having a good season but he’s not on the same level. Could be a debut for Porto at some stage since Hendry didn’t play much before his loan move to Italy. Can’t see Clarke changing the starting centre halves for Saturday though.

[Skol1972]

Three games in six days is a punishing schedule, so some will need a rest, but Saturday is a must-win. Of course, Tuesday could well be the same unless Ukraine drop points in Armenia and we win again at Hampden.
It will be interesting to see how Steve Clarke uses his squad and Tierney in particular. Greg Taylor is having a good season but he’s not on the same level. Could be a debut for Porto at some stage since Hendry didn’t play much before his loan move to Italy. Can’t see Clarke changing the starting centre halves for Saturday though.

Saturday is going to be difficult as Tierney, Hickey, McGregor, and Gordon all played last Sunday. So Saturday will be the third game in 6 days for any who play. There was a lot of energy put into last nights performance while the ROI were not playing.

[Frazerbob]

Three games in six days is a punishing schedule, so some will need a rest, but Saturday is a must-win. Of course, Tuesday could well be the same unless Ukraine drop points in Armenia and we win again at Hampden.
It will be interesting to see how Steve Clarke uses his squad and Tierney in particular. Greg Taylor is having a good season but he’s not on the same level. Could be a debut for Porto at some stage since Hendry didn’t play much before his loan move to Italy. Can’t see Clarke changing the starting centre halves for Saturday though.

Saturday is not a ‘must win’. 2 draws and we win the group. I’ll take that right now.
A win on Saturday and a loss on Tuesday and we probably finish 2nd, which is probably enough to secure a play-off place. Win on Saturday and Armenia take something from Ukraine and we finish top. Exciting times….and folk slated the Nations League when it started. Far better than friendlies.

[blackpoolhibs]

I agree with this. Although I think Robertson is the better player overall, I think Tierney performs better for Scotland than Robertson. Tierney will be due another injury soon anyway, so it is not as if he'll be keeping Robertson out all the time.

I do wonder if there might be repercussions for Tierney, though. It looked like he ripped the black armband for the Queen off and chucked it to the side of the pitch before kick off. I have no issue with that but I don't know if the SFA might take a different view.

I'm the opposite, i feel Tierney is the better player and it's a shame he has had a few injuries.

I could see Tierney getting a move to one of the biggest clubs if he stays clear of injuries, he's world class in my opinion in a couple of positions.

[McSwanky]

Am I right in saying if Scotland manage to get promoted, we go into Group A1? Currently Denmark, Croatia, Austria and France with France sitting bottom? Nothing to fear there, especially if France go down. Reckon we'll be in the play off finals in June 2024. You heard it here first :greengrin

[overdrive]

Am I right in saying if Scotland manage to get promoted, we go into Group A1? Currently Denmark, Croatia, Austria and France with France sitting bottom? Nothing to fear there, especially if France go down. Reckon we'll be in the play off finals in June 2024. You heard it here first :greengrin

No, I think promotion / relegation is only to/from the Leagues (A, B, C, D) rather the groups (1, 2, etc.). The groups are redrawn within the leagues. E.g. last time we were in B2, this time we are in B1. Otherwise you'd get teams playing each other all the time (not that it doesn't happen anyway - see Scotland/Israel).

[nonshinyfinish]

Am I right in saying if Scotland manage to get promoted, we go into Group A1? Currently Denmark, Croatia, Austria and France with France sitting bottom? Nothing to fear there, especially if France go down. Reckon we'll be in the play off finals in June 2024. You heard it here first :greengrin

Promotion would just mean we're in league A – the groups are then drawn from the teams in that league.

[overdrive]

I've just read that there's a plan to add South American teams to it from the next iteration. 6 highest ranked teams go into League A and the 4 lowest ranked into League B.

[Spudster]

There’s a great Twitter page explaining the permutations of our nations league progress:
https://twitter.com/thetartanscarf/status/1572699052365729793?s=46&t=Hjd5oHl4r1926toLmi1RiA

[McSwanky]

No, I think promotion / relegation is only to/from the Leagues (A, B, C, D) rather the groups (1, 2, etc.). The groups are redrawn within the leagues. E.g. last time we were in B2, this time we are in B1. Otherwise you'd get teams playing each other all the time (not that it doesn't happen anyway - see Scotland/Israel).


Promotion would just mean we're in league A – the groups are then drawn from the teams in that league.

Ah. Clearly getting over excited. I am, however, definitely correct in saying that if England get beaten tomorrow night they are relegated. Even a draw leaves their coat on a very shoogly peg. Shame :greengrin

[Musselbound]

Saturday is not a ‘must win’. 2 draws and we win the group. I’ll take that right now.
A win on Saturday and a loss on Tuesday and we probably finish 2nd, which is probably enough to secure a play-off place. Win on Saturday and Armenia take something from Ukraine and we finish top. Exciting times….and folk slated the Nations League when it started. Far better than friendlies.

I expect you are right but I always worry whenever there's any talk of a draw being ok for Scotland. Let's go and attack Ireland, get the 3 points and hope Ukraine slip up.

[cabbageandribs1875]

great performance last night but hopefully on Saturday the players make up for that very poor performance in Dublin

[gbhibby]

Ah. Clearly getting over excited. I am, however, definitely correct in saying that if England get beaten tomorrow night they are relegated. Even a draw leaves their coat on a very shoogly peg. Shame :greengrin
Just go out for wins in the two games
The England relegation would be lovely but it would also be great to have them in the same group next time

[JOD]

Remember Ukraine game is in afternoon on Sat so we'll know we have to do maybe could win group then with a win.

[MWHIBBIES]

I'm the opposite, i feel Tierney is the better player and it's a shame he has had a few injuries.

I could see Tierney getting a move to one of the biggest clubs if he stays clear of injuries, he's world class in my opinion in a couple of positions.

Almost zero chance he leaves Arsenal anytime soon. Great player though.

[theonlywayisup]

As a footballing nation, we are really really poor.

How bad is it going to be before this proud nation does something about it.



Wow! What a turn around!

Have we just been lucky or has there been a change that's only now just starting to ripple through. Whatever it's let's ride the wave!

[Frazerbob]

Wow! What a turn around!

Have we just been lucky or has there been a change that's only now just starting to ripple through. Whatever it's let's ride the wave!

We now have some very decent players playing at the highest level along with a manager that has his players enjoying representing their country. It's no longer a chore for these guys to play for Scotland. Next to no squad withdrawals these days tells you all you need to know.

[JimBHibees]

Almost zero chance he leaves Arsenal anytime soon. Great player though.

Might want to play more who knows