Euro 2020 setback for Clarke as Scotland lose ‘phenomenal’ Jack

Scotland’s Euro 2020 preparations have been dealt a blow with the news that Rangers midfielder Ryan Jack will not be fit to appear at this summer’s delayed finals.

Jack has struggled with a persistent calf issue for the past two seasons and has not played since trudging off against Dundee United back in February. Now the 29-year-old has been told by a top London specialist that he requires an operation to finally solve the problem and he will go under the knife next week.

"Unfortunately it's mixed news for Ryan and the bad news is he's ruled out for the rest of the season, so you won't see Ryan play for Rangers again this season,” revealed Ibrox boss Steven Gerrard.

"He's also ruled out of the Euros, which is bad news for him from a personal point of view and everyone connected with the Scottish game as I think he's been phenomenal for the national team.

"He was very much looking forward to that so it's sad news for him. But the good news is that we've found a solution and got to the bottom of the problem. All being well in terms of his rehab from the procedure that he will have next week, he should be due to return in preseason at some stage."

Scotland manager Steve Clarke – who had already lost Oli Mcburnie to injury this week and is sweating over the fitness of Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney – expressed his disappointment at losing someone who would likely have played a key role in the matches against Czech Republic, England and Croatia.

"I'm hugely disappointed for Ryan as he deserved to be part of our squad for Euro 2020,” said Clarke. "His performances for Scotland have been excellent, not least in the playoff final against Serbia when I thought he was outstanding at the heart of our midfield.

"I know how disappointed he is to miss out on the run-in to a memorable season - both with Rangers and with the national team at a major tournament this summer - but ultimately his long-term fitness is the most important objective for him now.

"We all wish Ryan a full and speedy recovery to enable him to get back to full fitness and playing at his best for club and country."