Defeat to Republic of Ireland, and the manner, was a deep disappointment but Clarke did take the nation to a first major tournament this century just last summer.
Five years ago, the Scotland manager was just about to embark on his management career north of the border, taking over at Kilmarnock in October 2017. A lot has changed in that time not just for the manager – but for players in his squad too.
Some were in the bottom tier of Scottish football or in under-age groups. Some would go on to make big money and headline moves – and a few others have stayed where they are.
Here’s a look back on where the current Scotland squad have come from, and where they were five years ago – in 2017.
5. Andy Robertson
We all know where he was 10 years ago, but five years back the Scotland captain was ending his spell with Hull City and making the big-money move to Liverpool for £8m. He played 115 on Humberside. Photo: Mark Robinson
6. Callum McGregor
Was at Celtic, still at Celtic. McGregor made his Scotland debut against Slovakia - team-mate Craig Gordon's 50th appearance. Also played his 100th game with Celtic in 2017. Photo: Ian MacNicol
7. John McGinn
Then at Hibs, the midfielder was subject of transfer interest from Nottingham Forest in summer 2017, but stayed another year with the Hibees for their return to the Premierhip. Photo: SNS Group Alan Harvey
8. Scott McTominay
Handed his Manchester United debut by Jose Mourinho this year, McTominay would go on to choose Scotland a year later after turning down an initial approach from interim national team manager Malky Mackay. Photo: Laurence Griffiths