Ayrshire reacts as Clarke leaves post

GOODBYE: Steve Clark stepped down as Scotland boss at the weekend (Image: Scotland National Team)

Football supporters in Ayrshire have shared their thoughts following the news that Steve Clarke stepped down as Scotland manager after their World Cup journey ended this weekend.

Ayrshire native Clarke led the national team to three major tournaments for the first time in over 20 years since taking charge seven years ago, but has decided to step aside following their latest disappointment at this year’s FIFA World Cup.

A 3-0 to defeat to Brazil in Group C on Wednesday and results elsewhere not going their way confirmed the Tartan Army’s exit from the tournament, turning out to be Clarke’s last.

The Saltcoats-born boss sat down with the national team media shortly after his resignation, reminding supporters on the journey to “remember the highs over the lows”.

He added: “I wanted to make these group of boys believe that they could get results and go to these places, and it’s been a journey uphill ever since.

“Football is never smooth but some of the highs have been amazing and will be part of Scottish folklore. Everyone will be talking these occasions right into the next century.”

His tenure has seen memorable victories over top nations such as Spain, Norway, and a decisive fixture against Denmark at Hampden in November 2025 to seal a place in the World Cup for the first time since 1998.

Ayrshire members of the Tartan Army took to social media to share their memories of Clarke’s time in charge following Saturday night’s announcement.

One user was thankful for “creating long-life memories” when over in Boston for the opening games against Haiti and Morocco due to Clarke’s influence.

North Ayrshire Tartan Army gave their thanks to the departing boss, wishing him well for the future.

A further comment said: “Clarke has done incredible to get Scotland to these major tournaments with the pool of players he had to chose from and got them to gel together and did the nation proud.

“He has earned his place as one if not Scotland’s greatest ever managers.”

Clarke stepped into the Scotland hot seat back in June 2019 following a successful spell at Premiership side Kilmarnock which saw him secure European football for the 2019/20.

His opening game saw a late Oli Burke goal seal a late 2-1 win against Cyprus at Hampden on their road to qualify for the postponed 2020 European Championships.

Previous spells for the North Ayrshire man included clubs such as Liverpool and West Bromwich Albion in a coaching and managerial capacity.