Big decision
Clarke delighted as Dykes opts for Scotland over Australia
Steve Clarke believes the addition of Lyndon Dykes to the national set-up can “make the squad better” but the Scotland manager insists he did not offer any guarantees to the Australian-born striker to convince him to pledge himself to the country of his parents, writes Andrew Smith.
Dykes’ decision to opt for Scotland has earned the player a call-up for next month’s Nations League double header games against Israel and the Czech Republic.
Clarke revealed that he first contacted the striker six months ago ahead of the Euro 2020 play-off semi-final, also against Israel. However, the match in March was postponed owing to the Covid-19 lockdown.
“It was no big process – when the [play-off ] games were originally scheduled
I had two or three phone calls with Lyndon,” Clarke said. “I was really honest with him and to be fair he was really honest with me. It was a really tough decision for the lad to make. Thankfully he came down on our side.
“I didn’ t make him any big promises but I told him what I saw in the squad and what I saw for him. His attributes can help us and make the squad better.”
Dykes, who made a £2 million move to Queens Park Rangers from Livingston last week, was born in Gold Coast but his parents are both from Dumfries.
Clarke has revealed that he hopes to have former Newcastle United assistant John Carver, pictured, join his backro om staff. It follows the Scotland assistant manager’s position opening up as the result of Kilmarnock manager Alex Dyer electing to focus on his club duties after becoming permanent boss at Rugby Park.
“I’ve had a good conversation with Alex,” said Clarke. “The biggest factor is SPFL matches in the October and November international breaks. The League Cup section games will be on those dates so it is impossible for Alex to be with the national team in Octo - b er or November. I discussed coming to this camp with him but he said he wanted to stay at Kilmarnock. “I’m looking for a new assistant or a new coach to come in. I’ve spoken to John Carver, who I have known for a long, long time. He is out of work at the moment and is enthusiastic to come and join us. It’s been finalised that Alex won’t be there. Hopefully in the next couple of days I will secure John and he can come up and help us.”