Clarke on big decisions, 'cotton wool' treatment & Haiti warning

Steve Clarke addressed the media before Scotland‘s final pre-World Cup friendly against Bolivia on Saturday in New Jersey.

>His priorities against Bolivia are “no injuries, performance and then result” as the head coach hopes to not lose any more players after Billy Gilmour’s injury in last weekend’s win against Curacao.

>He says it is “a straightforward selection“ on Saturday as it’s about “preparation not protection“. “

>"We can’t wrap players in cotton wool," he added. "You need to work. Injuries are part and parcel of football."

>Clarke said he still has “16 decisions” to make for Scotland‘s tournament opener against Haiti next Sunday.

>He added some fans have “a terrible habit of thinking these nations are not very good” but pointed to their thumping win over New Zealand on Tuesday as proof they‘re a “good, physical, technical” team.

>There are no “major” concerns, just a few players with “little grumbling things”.