FOOTBALL – NEW Scotland coach Sebastien Pocognoli said yesterday that he intended to build on the strong foundation laid by predecessor Steve Clarke while helping develop the next generation of talent as the national team embarks on a new era.
Clarke, Scotland’s most successful coach, stepped down after their World Cup exit in June, bringing to an end a seven-year reign in which he guided the country to their first men’s World Cup in 28 years and secured back-to-back Euro qualifications.
Scotland finished third in Group C at this year’s World Cup in North America but failed to rank among the top eight third-placed teams needed to reach the knockout stages.
Belgian Pocognoli, 39, was appointed Scotland’s new head coach on an initial two-year contract on Sunday and said the opportunity appealed to him because of the sporting challenge and the people involved.
“It’s a very strong challenge, with a project to develop the future of Scottish football,” Pocognoli told reporters at his first press conference as Scotland coach.
“There are the metrics, but the human aspect was also very important. I never go to a challenge where I can’t feel the connection. Scotland is a passionate country.”