Kieran’s Scot to wise up
KIERAN TIERNEY admitted Scotland are on a big tournament “learning curve”.
Boss Steve Clarke (inset) is facing criticism for long-ball tactics and losing the midfield battle against Croatia in their defeat at Hampden Park on Tuesday night.
The Tartan Army exited the Euros bottom of Group D and with just Callum Mcgregor’s goal to their name.
But the pressure of a three-game group against quality opposition will serve their young squad well in coming years – if they can keep qualifying for tournaments, starting with the World Cup in Qatar.
Arsenal star Tierney highlighted Scotland’s cautious start against Czech Republic. Losing 2-0 was damaging, as well as the fine margins of group stage competition, as he assessed their campaign where they banked one point from the 0-0 draw with England at Wembley. He said: “It was a big learning curve.
“We played against three amazing teams who have been in tournament football a lot more than us and have a lot more experience.
“I think that showed. But the message the manager wanted to get across was, ‘This is not the end of this group of boys, it’s just the beginning of us qualifying for tournaments.’
“I am sure the boys will give everything to do that. We will all learn, for sure.
“It’s just the beginning of us qualifying for tournaments more and giving the fans more to celebrate and cheer.”
Scotland’s World Cup qualifying campaign has got off to a slow start with draws against Austria and Israel and a win against the Faroe Islands.
Their next opponents Denmark top Group F with three wins and they will need to be on top form in September.