Rangers star Ryan Jack has lavished praise on Scotland manager Steve Clarke for making him feel a part of the nation’s international set-up.
Ibrox midfielder Jack played a lead role in the nation’s run to Euro 2020 with the industrious middle-man playing 120 minutes of Scotland’s victorious 5-4 penalty kicks win over Serbia.
Speaking after the iconic victory and with one eye on a spot at further competitions along the line, the Rangers star couldn’t speak highly enough of a figure who hasn’t always been popular at Ibrox.
“When the manager here, Steve Clarke, got the job and we had a conversation, he made me feel a part of the Scotland set up straightaway,” said Jack [Glasgow Times].
“That was massive for me.
“I think the international scene, if I’m being honest, I’ve not really had that before, where I felt right involved and a part of the plans.
“So that side of it really helped me and from that first conversation I thought this was the aim, I felt like there was the chance with the group we had that we could go and achieve something.
“We said at the start we were trying to go on a journey – and qualifying for a major competition is just the start.
“Going forward, there are going to be more competitions and more big games coming our way.
“So, this is the start – and hopefully we can continue it.”
Since Steve Clarke has come in as Scotland boss, Jack has been involved in seven of the last nine international matches.
The Scotland boss is also unbeaten in matches where Ryan Jack has played.
Prior to the former Kilmarnock boss taking over the national team, Jack has only made two appearances for his country, including a boo-ridden debut at Pittodrie against the Netherlands.
The midfielder is now firmly in the national team set-up and is forming a strong partnership with Celtic counterpart Calum McGregor in the middle of the pitch
Rangers’ leading light in the Scottish national side, the midfielder will now look forward to taking part in nation’s first national tournament in more than two decades.
Steve Clarke’s Kilmarnock side might’ve been a constant thorn in Rangers’ side during his time at Rugby Park, but no one can deny the job he’s doing at Hampden.
