Bannan focused on job in hand

06 October 2011 06:50
arry Bannan says Scotland's full focus is on beating Liechtenstein this weekend, rather than looking ahead to their glamour clash with Spain.[LNB] The Scots travel to Alicante for their final Group I match early next week, where they will face the World and European champions and come up against some of the best players on the planet.[LNB]But Bannan is well aware a win in Vaduz is crucial to their hopes of securing a Euro 2012 play-off spot and is adamant the Scots will look no further than Saturday's game until the points are secured.[LNB]He said in a video interview with the Scottish Football Association "The next game is the biggest game in our heads. We have got a tough game against Liechtenstein.[LNB]"The Spain game is probably the biggest one but we have got to concentrate on the first one or else the Spain game could count for nothing.[LNB]"Everyone that has come here believes in the squad qualifying for the championships.[LNB]"We have got to concentrate on our own performances first and foremost and hopefully the Czech Republic results go the right way.[LNB]"We have to concentrate on ourselves and hopefully Lady Luck shines on us."[LNB]Bannan claims he does not feel any increased burden ahead of the final two qualifiers because of his crucial contribution against Lithuania, when he marked his first competitive start with a man-of-the-match performance in the 1-0 win.[LNB]He said: "I wouldn't say added pressure, it just helps your confidence build.[LNB]"If you're confident going into games, probably nine times out of 10 you will do well. I'm really confident now because I'm playing games and just looking forward to every game that comes around."[LNB]Bannan's efforts for Scotland sparked a run in the Aston Villa first team and the 21-year-old has since started four matches for Alex McLeish's side following an early substitute appearance at Everton immediately after his return from international duty.[LNB]Bannan said: "The last game we got a great victory and went away with our clubs and have played more games so we will be a bit fitter.[LNB]"Playing with your club and getting more games, you are going to be improving every week.[LNB]"I have to say a big thank you to the gaffer here because my last game for Scotland against Lithuania played a big part in me getting back in with my club team."

Source: Team_Talk