Scotland: Steve Clarke ‘already trying forward’ after stable begin to World Cup qualifying

Clarke is not the only one looking ahead, with the Tartan Army now dreaming of returning to football’s biggest show next summer.

After a difficult time in the spring and summer, the draw in Copenhagen set Scotland up nicely, and though the performance in beating Belarus was far from flashy, it was professional and delivered a critical result.

Che Adams’ goal just before half-time calmed the nerves, and his lovely pass helped force an own goal which saw Scotland over the line in a game played in Hungary behind closed doors.

Although Belarus did not offer a great deal, goalkeeper Angus Gunn only made one meaningful save, a third clean sheet in a row was welcomed by Clarke.

It is a sign of Scotland returning to the more form which helped them qualify for two European Championships.

“Clean sheets are what we have to build our campaign on,” the Scotland head coach said.

“If we can keep the ball out the net we’ve always got enough to score one or two goals.”

Scotland have rarely put any team to the sword under Clarke’s tenure, but overall they have been effective in building on a solid base and being clinical in key moments.

“It’s going to give the whole team a lot of confidence,” former Scotland captain Scott Brown said on Sportscene.

“There were four changes as well, which shows you he can manipulate the squad well too.

“That’s credit to Steve. He’s not going to 4-3-3, full throttle, he’s always been about making sure his defensive unit is there, having structure in midfield, and when they do get opportunities take them.”