Scotland manager Steve Clarke has expressed his disappointment and surprise after some fans booed the team following a 1-0 defeat to Japan at Hampden Park. The friendly match was a crucial warm-up game ahead of Scotland’s World Cup campaign in North America. Clarke acknowledged the negative reaction from the fans, stating, “Yes and it disappointed me to be honest. It’s just the modern way, it seems to be now if you lose a game you get booed. You have just got to deal with it. It disappoints me”.
Clarke emphasized that the team’s performance against Japan, a strong opponent, showed promise and provided valuable experience. He highlighted the team’s midfield performance and praised player Tommy Conway’s contribution. The manager also defended his strategy of scheduling tough friendlies, saying, “Sometimes, I think my players look at me and say ‘come on gaffer what are you doing?’ I always try to pick difficult friendlies”.
Japan’s winning goal came in the 84th minute through substitute Junya Ito, sparking frustration among the home crowd. Scotland will next face Ivory Coast at Everton’s Hill Dickinson stadium on Tuesday night, with Clarke expecting significant changes to the starting lineup.
