It’s sad that issues like the ones Steve Clarke has been faced with still appear in Scottish football. The Killie stated that he was the subject of sectarian abuse at Ibrox on Wednesday night from sections of the home support.
This type of behaviour needs condemned nationwide, and Clarke shouldn’t have to put up with it. It’s a shame that incidents like this could persuade the former Chelsea coach to take his family back down south.
Steve Clarke shouldn’t have to put up with abuse at his work. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
The reaction to the abuse on social media is grim. Many fans asked if Clarke said these things because his team had just been put to the sword in a 5-0 defeat, therefore this makes his claims of abuse redundant. That thought process alone is utterly ridiculous, and is half the problem with this incident.
Some Rangers fans are unable to take blame for this situation, instead of holding themselves accountable. The inability to admit some fans were wrong is what makes this situation a whole lot darker.
Sections of the Ibrox crowd have to take accountability for their actions. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
It’ll certainly give Clarke some thoughts as to whether he wants to bring up his children in Scotland, and if he wants to continue working in the region. One thing is certain though, Scottish football can’t afford to lose the inspirational boss.
A breath of fresh air
His Killie renaissance is well documented. Clarke came into the Ayrshire club when they were effectively on their knees, fans dreaming of a life where lower mid table obscurity and mediocrity wasn’t the normality at Rugby Park.
Not only did Clarke change that mentality, he has changed Killie into one of the Premiership’s most feared sides. They are a joy to watch, and give everything for the badge. He’s been pivotal for Killie, but he’s also been great for the game in this country.
Clarke has been great for Scottish football.(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
He’s showed the rest of the league not to be scared of Celtic and Rangers. Teams have seen the way Killie play against the Old Firm, and have took it into their own game. Sure, sometimes it doesn’t work due to it’s high pressing and mostly attacking nature, but when it does, the two teams from Glasgow can’t handle it.
Clarke has always spoke the truth in his press conferences. With some managers, you can almost predict the answers they are going to give, but this is borderline impossible with Clarke. He always has something to say, and gives Killie and Scottish football fans a good insight into what goes on at Rugby Park.
Finally, he has made the smaller teams believe again. Celtic have been utterly dominant domestically recently, winning the two major domestic cups and the league for the past two seasons. Clarke’s revolution somewhat gives others hope that this won’t last forever. He’s showed the rest of the country that as long as you don’t fear the opposition, you’ll get your just reward. His Killie side have certainly seen the benefits of this mentality.
Killie can’t afford to lose the former Chelsea coach. (photo by David Young/Action Plus via Getty Images)
Steve Clarke has been a wonderful character in Scottish football. He’s helped Kilmarnock out of obscurity and placed them firmly in the spotlight. He’s inspiring not only those in Kilmarnock, but supporters of teams around the country.
It would be a shame if this made him take his career elsewhere.