World Cup 2026: Steve Clarke’s ‘cartwheels at breakfast’ show Scotland culture shift

It’s impossible not to notice the shift in the ever stoic Clarke.

Down at Fort Lauderdale two weeks ago, at the squad’s pre-tournament camp at Inter Miami’s training centre, Clarke came over to the pitch-side media – unexpectedly – for a wee chinwag.

Such a relaxed nature can maybe be hoped for on day one of such a special period, but past experience would suggest that’s unlikely to last.

However, Clarke’s candid chat with Eilidh Barbour before his light pre-match news conference at the Boston Stadium on Friday – where he joked about what he learned from Euro 2024 was “don’t get humped” – is evidence of his more relaxed approach this time around.

“He’s been to two tournaments, he’s told you he’s not enjoyed them, he’s sat and reflected why and then it’s about what can he do to make it more enjoyable, firstly for him,” said Naismith, who failed to qualify for a major tournament as a player.

“Before the tournament, there was so much work done in terms of what the players want, what they need, what they didn’t like before.

“Bringing the families closer, having more family time, having periods of real hard work and then going to relax, taking that pressure valve off so you’re not constantly thinking of football.

“I think it’s worked well.”