Scotland: Louis van Gaal influence still with Sebastien Pocogonoli
Progress is exactly what every Scotland fan is yearning for. Under Steve Clarke, the amount of that very commodity plateaued.
Years in the international wilderness were expelled with two European Championships and a World Cup appearance, but they were punctuated by disappointing results and dour tactics.
Pocognoli’s arrival signified not only a new era, but a new approach, formation, selection and outlook.
It has been far from straightforward for the Belgian as he approaches 100 days in charge next week. Five games, two wins over North Macedonia, a draw in Slovenia and two humbling defeats mark his tenure so far.
Within it, a fresh system and injection of different faces to offer a break from the norm, but also plenty signs that a transformation will not be an immediate reality.
Scotland’s failings in front of goal has remained, while it is clear the Scots are still getting to grips with a back three, albeit with enforced changes in personnel.
“Everything in life takes time to build if you want to achieve something,” said Pocognoli.
