Jim Goodwin noticed criticism of the national team early in Steve Clarke’s reign – and the St Mirren boss hopes those who fired shots can now admit their mistakes.
Whilst his native Ireland isn’t going to be at Euro 2020, Goodwin is made up for Scotland, who will head to the major finals next summer. It’s the first time the nation has made such an occasion since 1998.
Goodwin knows more than a few people on both the coaching and playing side of things. He’s delighted that they will receive enormous credit, praising manager Clarke for persevering through early skepticism.
“I was really delighted, I know a number of the squad on the playing side but I also know Steven Reid (Scotland assistant manager),” said Goodwin. “I was in the Irish coaching setup with him so I keep in touch with him all the time.
“John McGinn and Kenny McLean I obviously know from their playing days at St Mirren. I am over the moon that Scotland have finally qualified for a major tournament. Steve Clarke and that whole group deserve enormous credit.
“They have brought an enormous wave of positivity to the nation in a time when everyone is low because of the current situation. I hope Steve Clarke gets all the recognition he deserves because he’s a top bloke.
“In the dealings I have had with him he’s a good guy. The SFA made a great appointment. In the last two or three games I’ve seen a real change in the supporters and media’s attitudes.
“I think Steve Clarke came in for some real unnecessary criticism when he was trying to find out what suited the players he had. I do think people were too quick to criticise early on.
“I hope those people can hold their hands up and say they got it wrong. He’s put a system together and it works. Everyone now seems to be behind the national team and it’ll be nice to read and listen to nice things being said about the national game.”
St Mirren have their own big game to contend with this weekend, heading to Hampden to face Queen’s Park in their final League Cup group stage match. Needing a win to secure progression against the League Two side, it isn’t a task to underestimate.
“They have some players that should be playing at a higher level and have done so throughout their careers,” said Goodwin of Queen’s Park. “Grant Gillespie is one I know, Michael Doyle, Peter Grant, Lee Kilday.
“They have all played Championship level at least and I’ve made that point to the players. Do not underestimate them because I think they could easily compete in the Championship.
“We’ve had the toughest group because everyone is full-time. It’s going to be a tough test but I’m really looking forward to it as it’s a chance for the lads to play at Hampden which doesn’t come about very often.”