Clarke tells Tartan Army: don’t go into debt chasing World Cup dream
Scotland boss Steve Clarke has urged fans not to put themselves into financial trouble trying to follow the national team to next year’s World Cup in the United States.
Clarke was speaking as Scotland Supporters Club members were given their first chance to apply for tickets for group games against Haiti and Morocco in Boston, and the glamour tie with Brazil in Miami. With ticket prices already under fire, the manager struck a note of caution.
“It’s going to be expensive,” Clarke said. “It’s expensive to go to America anyway and the tickets are expensive. If you can get there and you can afford it, then fantastic. But don’t push yourself too far into debt trying to get there.”
Fifa have been heavily criticised over pricing, with some supporters facing bills running into the thousands for a single seat. Scotland are expected to receive around eight per cent of the allocation for each group match, though the Scottish FA is hopeful that figure will rise as the tournament gets closer.
“It’s Fifa’s tournament, they decide what they decide,” Clarke added. “The Scottish FA have taken their full allocation.” He admitted even friends have been chasing him for tickets already, but said he had nothing to give. “He’ll need to hold fire on those ones,” Clarke joked.
Clarke also said he hopes the fans who have followed Scotland to “far flung places” over the years can get access at a fair price. “They deserve to be there,” he said, reflecting on the support that helped drive qualification.
The manager was back in Scotland for the first time since the 4-2 win over Denmark sealed qualification, and admitted he’s been struck by the reaction. “The number of well wishers that are genuinely excited is great,” he said. “It shows the power of football and what it can do for people.”
Preparation plans are already taking shape. Scotland are hoping to line up friendlies against non-European sides, including a send-off match at Hampden, plus two training camps before heading stateside. One of those camps is expected to be in a hot climate.
With a 26-man squad allowed, Clarke says there is room for new faces despite his loyalty to those who got Scotland there. “I’m not afraid to bring young players in,” he said. “There’s still plenty of opportunities. Their job is simple — play well, get minutes and force their way into the squad.”