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.
9. Anthony Ralston
Recent cap was at Celtic, between loans at Queen's Park and Dundee United. Photo: SNS Group Craig Foy
10. Ryan Christie
Forward spent the year on loan at Aberdeen having yet to establish himself at Celtic. Photo: SNS Group Bill Murray
11. Che Adams
Having progressed through non-league football to Sheffield United, Adams was in his first of three years at Birmingham City in 2017 but courted by Fulham who had a £10m transfer bid rejected in the summer. He turned down an approach this year to join up with Scotland's under-21s but later agreed to join Steve Clarke's senior side in 2020. Photo: Gareth Copley
12. Steve Clarke
Scotland manager was between jobs for three-quarters of the year having left Aston Villa the year prior and the boss joined Kilmarnock in October. Photo: SNS Group Ross Parker