Scotland issue warning after Germany infighting ahead of Euro 2024 opener

The Germans have continued a noble tradition of major football powers being rocked by fall outs between team-mates at major tournaments. Midfielder Toni Kroos described the brief spat earlier this week between Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger and Niclas Fullkrug of Borussia Dortmund as a “good thing” when the veteran midfielder spoke at a press conference on Tuesday. He claimed it demonstrated desire. Clarke agreed and added that it should serve as a reminder to people about the potency of the hosts.

“Everyone was telling me when the draw was made that Germany wasn’t in a good place,” he said. “I wasn’t fooled. I wasn’t getting carried away with that talk. You know when it comes to a major tournament that Germany are always ready. It’s a home tournament. You know they’re going to be really up for this one.

“There was a bit in the media about a little bust-up on their training pitch,” he added. “That just tells me that they’re ready and up for it. We expect a very, very good Germany side, but hopefully they’re facing a very, very good Scotland side. Julian Nagelsmann’s taken a little bit of time to put his stamp on the team but that’s what happens. In recent friendly matches they’ve looked like their old selves.”

Speaking to the Scottish national team channel, the manager addressed the extra responsibility on Scotland as they open the tournament against Germany. Clarke revealed that he will be reminding the players to keep focused despite the ceremonial “circus” going on around them.

“Individually they have to understand that we’re not there for the occasion,” he said. “We’re there for the game and the vast majority will understand that. The pre-match routine will be different because there’s a show going on on the pitch. It’s going to be completely different and we’ll have a chat about that. We’ll tell the players to expect something different, to adapt and be ready. Forget the circus that’s going on round about us and enjoy the game.”