Steve Clarke challenged Scotland to produce a much better performance in Wednesday’s Nations League game against Ukraine than they did in their World Cup play-off defeat earlier this year.
The Scots were well beaten when the sides last met in early June as Oleksandr Petrakov’s side – playing their first game since the start of the Russian invasion of their homeland in February – produced an impressive performance for win 3-1 on an emotional night. in Hamden.
Clarke is hoping for a much better performance when the teams meet in Glasgow on Wednesday.
“I don’t think he’ll have the same advantage because that June game was quite unique with the circumstances leading up to it,” Clarke said, when asked how this week’s game would compare to the play-offs. of the World Cup.
“It will be slightly different, but it’s still a big game for two teams who want to dominate the section. I think the Scottish public, the Scottish fans will now know that Ukraine is a very good team.
“I’m sure they will play at the same level, but what I expect from our team is that we get back to the level we can and then we will see what the result will be.
“I think the players knew what to expect this summer, but we just haven’t reached our level. Hopefully this time we will.
Clarke has no plans to call anyone else to the squad before Wednesday’s game despite losing three players to injury.
Striker Jacob Brown, defender Grant Hanley and goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin all withdrew over the weekend, with Rangers striker Robby McCrorie the only player called up so far to fill the gaps.
The Scots host Ireland on Saturday before facing Ukraine again in Warsaw next Tuesday.
“Definitely not until the first game,” Clarke said, when asked if there would be any other additions.
“We will monitor the situation, but I have more than enough in the squad to cover the first game.
“I’m disappointed to lose more players but we knew some of them (the recalls) were coming. We just have to deal with them and move on.
