As far as creatures of habit go, Clarke would give a house cat a run for its money.
The rumours that he was on the verge of picking Aberdeen’s Connor Barron always seemed a little fanciful, but then so, too, did the chat of Doak being included.
Doak hasn’t played for Liverpool since mid-December, but you can see why Clarke is keen to have a look at him. He’s a flyer and he offers something different.
His level of fitness must be decent, even if he’s not been appearing for what was Jurgen Klopp’s side. Doak is the bolter.
One goalkeeper and one other player will lose out when this squad is cut from 28 to 26. Doak still has a lot of work to do, but his inclusion is exciting.
It almost – almost – takes your mind off the fact Hickey, Ferguson and Patterson are missing. Right-back, or right wing-back, remains an issue to keep the Tartan Army awake at night.
There are rustiness concerns over Hanley, Armstrong and Jack, but Clarke has gone with the tried and tested, while crossing his fingers that they’ll be ready.
Forrest’s late surge with Celtic – and injuries elsewhere – has got him in. A few weeks ago he was kicking his heels on the Celtic bench and now look at him.
If Scotland in Germany can be as unbreakable as Forrest’s spirit then these championships should be a joy.