KRIS BOYD has branded criticism of Scotland boss Steve Clarke as "ludicrous".
Clarke has come under fire from some supporters and pundits after the Scots were defeated 3-0 by the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on Saturday.
The shock loss comes after Scotland were defeated by Ukraine in the World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine at Hampden Park.
Boyd understands the disappointment and he believes the reaction goes to show how far the national team has come under the leadership of Clarke.
He told Sky Sports News: “I have worked with Steve Clarke and I know the way he goes about his business.
“You look at the Scotland squad, everyone is turning up, they are happy to be there, which has not been the case with previous managers and previous campaigns.
“Steve Clarke is not going anywhere, there is no doubt about that.
“There have been people out there calling for his head and that he should be removed if we don’t win tonight.
“It’s absolutely ludicrous. I don’t care what anyone says.
“This is not just me sticking up for my ex-manager. This is just someone who has seen improvement in the Scottish national team.
“I have seen how together they are, I have seen how disappointed they have been, the players, management and staff, when they have lost games of football and that has not been the case that often.
“I think we are on the right track. You have to remember we were at the Euros and that was the first time we have been anywhere since the World Cup in 1998.
“Yes there is disappointment at losing to Ukraine, but Ukraine are a good team and there is no shame in it.
“It wasn’t to be, but for people to say that Steve Clarke should go if we don’t win tonight is ludicrous.
“If there is someone better out there, tell me who it is and I can put up a case for it.”
