Christie praises “Legend” Clarke in World Cup Reflection

Ryan Christie reveals the Scotland squad were “shell-shocked” after Steve Clarke called time on his managerial reign, but insists they are determined to return to the major tournaments after an underwhelming World Cup campaign. The side ended their 28-year wait to return to the World Cup after an unforgettable qualification campaign culminating in a 4-2 thriller over Denmark. Christie featured in all three group stage matches, including a start against Morocco in Boston. In a short interview with BBC Scotland, the Bournemouth man was quick to praise the travelling Tartan Army support. “Seeing all the Scotland fans over there was incredible. The atmosphere was electric.” “The first 72 hours afterwards, you feel a bit gutted because we were desperate to get out of the group and it wasn’t to be,” “But I had such a good time with that bunch of boys that have been together for so many years now. “When you finish, you’re just hungry for more. “I’m desperate now to go to more tournaments, just thinking, when’s the next one?” Scotland’s major tournament record under Clarke has been a talking point of his seven-year reign, recording just one victory and four goals in nine games. Christie believes Scotland’s next assignment must be to make further inroads on the biggest stage. “We were determined to qualify for a World Cup, and we ticked that box,” “Now we really want to go to a tournament and make an impression. It’s the next step for our nation.” With 71 caps and 10 goals, including a crucial opener against Serbia that helped secure Scotland’s place at Euro 2020, Christie has been a central figure for his country. A vital component throughout the recent World Cup qualification campaign, he recently offered insight into the squad’s reaction to Clarke’s shock resignation. “He called a meeting, which we thought was to draw a line under the tournament,” he said. “Naturally, everyone was shell-shocked and gutted. “He’s done so much for us and obviously goes down as a Scotland legend. He’ll be missed. “I’m looking forward to seeing who comes in and hopefully we can go on a good run again.”