However, Scotland traveled to Germany after a poor run of form, and further disappointment ensued over the summer, as did a barrage of criticism of the head coach for his style pedestrian game.

A change of approach was required and it came in the form of a move to a 4-2-3-1 shape, with Doak adding some much-needed pace and coming out wide.

Late concessions at home to Poland and Portugal, as well as a narrow defeat in Croatia, deprived the Scots of points from their opening three Nations League matches.

But seven points from their final matches against the same opposition ended the campaign on a high and avoided automatic relegation.

“Clarke’s change of system has brought more freedom,” former Scotland midfielder John Collins told BBC Sportsound.

“The players look more comfortable in possession and they have more options in front of them. John Souttar now looks like an international central defender and Doak has given us pace, power and penetration.”

Meanwhile, former Scotland striker James McFadden added: “We don’t have strikers who will score in every game, but we have a manager who will find a way to get the best out of the players.

“He has built a very strong team and we can now look forward to qualifying for the World Cup, regardless of our group.”