Clarke on playing Belarus behind closed doors, ‘big effort’ against Denmark & team news

Clarke is sure his Scotland team will deal with playing behind closed doors in Zalaegerszeg, referring to their positive performances and results during the Covid pandemic.

Expects Scotland to have more of the ball than they did in the 0-0 draw against Denmark on Friday. “Creating more clean chances” will be key if they are to beat Belarus.

He’s viewing every qualifying match in isolation and made it clear he is going into this game seeking three points.

In the build-up to these two games, Clarke spoke to his players about being more solid defensively and working harder off the ball.

He expects a reaction from Belarus after their heavy 5-1 defeat by Greece. Clarke was surprised by the scoreline and calls Belarus a “decent side”.

Players were “tired” after a “big effort” against the Danes, and although Clarke says early-season freshness will get Scotland through, there will be “one or two changes”.

Very pleased with the options he had to change the game off the bench against Denmark.

On lack of goals from strikers, he says it doesn’t matter where in the team goals come from. “I’ve never sat thinking we were a team that would struggle for goals.”

There are no injury concerns after the game in Copenhagen. “Everyone’s fit and ready to go.”