Scotland's culture shift: 'Cartwheels at breakfast' and embracing the

Scotland's return to the World Cup after 36 years has brought about a noticeable cultural shift within the squad and coaching staff, with head coach Steve Clarke adopting a more relaxed approach and players embracing the fan experience.

Assistant coach Steven Naismith, speaking in jest, said the team had been warned to expect a 'different Steve Clarke' — one who might be 'doing cartwheels down at breakfast' after Scotland's victory against Haiti on Saturday, the country's first at a World Cup since 1986. But the comment reflected a genuine change in atmosphere.

Clarke's candid approach

Clarke has not hidden that he 'didn't enjoy' the first two major tournaments he led Scotland to, and he insisted he would 'soak it up' during this campaign in the United States. His more relaxed demeanor was evident two weeks ago at the squad's pre-tournament camp in Fort Lauderdale, where he unexpectedly approached pitch-side media for an informal chat. Such openness was rare in previous tournaments.

Before a pre-match news conference in Boston, Clarke joked with reporter Eilidh Barbour that what he learned from Euro 2024 was 'don't get humped' — a sign of his lighter mood. Naismith explained that Clarke had reflected on why he did not enjoy past tournaments and sought to make the experience more enjoyable for himself and the players.

Family time and pressure release

Naismith highlighted that the team has prioritized family time and relaxation, a departure from previous tournaments. 'Bringing the families closer, having more family time, having periods of real hard work and then going to relax, taking that pressure valve off so you're not constantly thinking of football,' he said. 'I think it's worked well.'

The history makers did not hit the Boston nightlife on Saturday after their win, but instead spent Sunday morning with their families. 'Previous tournaments there's not been that,' Naismith said. 'Just being a dad, being a husband, being a son. That's not been there. What we're doing now is working — and long may it continue.'

Embracing the fans

The squad has also embraced the Tartan Army, with players sharing photos and videos on social media and mingling with fans in Boston. Injured midfielder Billy Gilmour, expected to rejoin the squad in North Carolina, was seen at the 'Scotland Celebration' at Fenway Park on Sunday.

Naismith emphasized the team's desire to be part of the fan experience. 'That's been a big change in terms of we've embraced that. We want to be part of that experience. We go to Boston a couple of days early, they're roaming about the city at certain points, seeing fans, so the connection, for me, has been as good as it's been.' He added that there is a balance between engagement and focus, noting that players still have a job to do.

The squad returned to Charlotte on Sunday night later than scheduled due to a flight delay. On Monday, it was Ben Gannon-Doak's turn to entertain the media, continuing the lighter atmosphere in camp.