Since joining Scotland’s national team in 2019, Liam Cooper has earned 16 caps and is now a central figure in their defense.
Reflecting on their last European Championship experience, Cooper, the central defender, admits the team fell short of their potential. During the pandemic-delayed Euro 2020, under Steve Clarke’s leadership, Scotland exited in the group stage, managing only a single point from three matches.
This was a stark contrast to their absence from the championship since 1996, but they’ve now secured their spot for the upcoming tournament in Germany with games to spare.
Cooper, 32, and captain of Leeds United, acknowledges the team has much to demonstrate. He mentions that the previous Euros were a new experience for many, including himself. In private discussions, they conceded they hadn’t lived up to their capabilities.
The team is determined to show they deserve their place and can advance past the group stages, a feat no Scottish squad has achieved in either the European Championship or the World Cup.
Scotland’s recent performance indicates potential to overcome this hurdle, with five consecutive wins in Group A before a close defeat in Spain.
Their qualifying round ends with matches in Georgia and against Norway at home.
Cooper stresses the importance of embracing the rising expectations. He believes in the team’s skill and the support from staff and behind-the-scenes personnel. Their aim is to maintain this momentum and keep their fans proud.
Cooper credits Clarke for fostering a club-like atmosphere within the national team, enhancing the team’s unity and resolve. The success at major competitions and Clarke’s approach have boosted team morale and streamlined problem-solving.
The draw for the Euro 2024 groups is set for 2 December in Hamburg, and Cooper is eager to learn about the team’s base for the tournament. He humorously notes the challenges of booking accommodations without definite locations, with many holding multiple hotel reservations.
Cooper remains grounded, aware of the football yet to be played both at the club and international levels before the tournament.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Scotland Euro 2024
What is Liam Cooper’s role in Scotland’s national football team?
Liam Cooper serves as a central defender for Scotland’s national football team and has been capped 16 times since 2019.
How did Scotland perform in the previous European Championship?
In the Euro 2020, which was delayed due to Covid-19, Scotland was eliminated in the group stage, securing only one point from three games.
Has Scotland qualified for Euro 2024?
Yes, Scotland has successfully qualified for Euro 2024, securing their place in Germany with two qualifying games to spare.
What are Scotland’s ambitions for Euro 2024 according to Liam Cooper?
According to Liam Cooper, Scotland aims to prove they belong in the tournament and have the ability to progress beyond the group stage, a feat they have not previously achieved in the European Championship or World Cup.
How has head coach Steve Clarke influenced the Scottish national team?
Steve Clarke has been credited by Liam Cooper for creating a club-like environment in the national team, which has enhanced team unity and confidence, contributing to their recent success in qualifying matches.
More about Scotland Euro 2024
- Scotland National Football Team
- Liam Cooper Player Profile
- Euro 2024 Qualifiers
- UEFA European Championship History
- Steve Clarke Coaching Career
- Euro 2024 Tournament Details
- Scotland’s Football Performance Analysis
- Euro 2020 Summary
3 comments
So proud of our boys, they’ve come a long way. Also, Cooper seems like such a grounded guy, love the team spirit he talks about!
interesting read but i think the article’s missing some key analysis on the other teams in the qualifiers, Scotland’s not in a vacuum you know
wow, scotland really stepping it up this time? hope they go beyond the group stage this year, its been too long, come on boys!!