Rangers: What Lawrence Shankland personally said to Steve Clarke after Scotland resignation

Rangers' Lawrence Shankland has reflected on his relationship with Steve Clarke after Scotland's exit from the World Cup.

The Tartan Army had to pack their bags earlier than they would have liked to after failing to reach the knockout stages.

Scotland only managed to pick up one result and score one goal in North America, as Clarke subsequently resigned after their fate was confirmed.

Shankland made two starts for the Tartan Army and managed 89 minutes in the 3-0 loss to Brazil, with many fans arguing over who the best striker option was for Clarke to play.

The former Hearts forward battled with the likes of Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams for a starting spot, though all Scotland players will soon have a new boss to impress once the Scottish FA make their decision.

Now, Shankland has sent a new message following Scotland's exit and also had some words for Clarke.

Lawrence Shankland sends Steve Clarke and Scotland message

Shankland may have been disappointed that he was left out of the 1-0 loss to Morocco, as a point might have allowed Scotland to qualify.

The 30-year-old was in red-hot form prior to travelling to North America, scoring goals for fun in two friendlies for his nation before it all kicked off.

Shankland will link up with his new Rangers teammates sooner than expected after Scotland's exit, and get to work with Derek McInnes once again.

However, the striker has sent a new message to Scotland fans and Clarke on Instagram after what unfolded at the World Cup for the Tartan Army.

Shankland said: "Unfortunately [we] didn’t get to the stages of the tournament we set out to achieve, but I’m still proud to have been a part of an amazing group of staff and teammates.

"For the Gaffer, simply a massive thank you. Firstly, for giving me my first cap for my country but since then, so many amazing camps and games to be a part of, an opportunity to be a part of squads at a Euros and again at this tournament is something I'll always be grateful for.

"I wish you nothing but the best."

It's an emotional time for everyone connected to Scotland, but there is hope that the nation can bounce back in the future.

Now, all eyes are on McInnes and how he uses Shankland in pre-season games ahead of Rangers' 2026-27 campaign.

The dilemma Derek McInnes already has with Shankland

McInnes often played Claudio Braga next to Shankland in a partnership for Hearts last season, as he used his preferred 4-4-2 formation.

However, Shankland is coming back to Ibrox after being deployed as a lone striker by Clarke, and a similar setup to what Rangers fans saw under Danny Rohl.

It's clear to see that Shankland works better with somebody next to him, but it's the effect that it has on the rest of the squad by doing so.

McInnes needs to ensure he has a strong midfield if he is to go with the 4-4-2, as he'd instantly get more bodies deeper in the field by playing Shankland by himself up top.

Time will tell, though, as the 54-year-old has shown his adaptability throughout his career.