STEVE CLARKE has expressed his disappointment at the revelation that Ryan Jack will miss the European Championships with Scotland this summer.

Rangers boss Steven Gerrard confirmed the news on Friday morning ahead of the Old Firm Scottish Cup clash this weekend.

Jack will have surgery next week in an attempt to cure a long-standing issue that has kept him sidelined since the win over Dundee United in February.

READ MORE: Steven Gerrard's sympathy for 'devastated' Ryan Jack after Rangers midfielder is ruled out of Euro 2020

The loss of the midfielder is a huge blow to Clarke as he prepares his squad for the Euros clashes with the Czech Republic, England and Croatia this summer.

Jack has been an influential performer for club and country in recent seasons and has still been a key man despite suffering an injury-disrupted campaign this term.

The Herald: Ryan Jack

His absence will be sorely felt by the national team during the Championships and Clarke is sorry that Jack will miss out on a place in his squad this summer.

Clarke said: “I’m hugely disappointed for Ryan as he deserved to be part of our squad for Euro 2020.

"His performances for Scotland have been excellent, not least in the Play-Off Final against Serbia when I thought he was outstanding at the heart of our midfield.

“I know how disappointed he is to miss out on the run-in to a memorable season – both with Rangers and with the national team at a major tournament this summer – but ultimately his long-term fitness is the most important objective for him now.

"We all wish Ryan a full and speedy recovery to enable him to get back to full fitness and playing at his best for club and country.”