Martin backs Belgium for big things

04 September 2013 18:46

Scotland defender Russell Martin has hailed Belgium as potential World Cup winners as the two nations prepare to go head to head on Friday.

The two teams go into the match at Hampden with contrasting fortunes in the campaign so far.

Scotland's hopes of qualification are long gone, while the Belgians descend on Glasgow with a three-point advantage at the top of Group A.

And Martin believes their opponents have the potential, not just to secure their place at Brazil next summer, but to go all the way in the tournament.

He said: "It's their golden generation coming through. It's no coincidence, they work extremely hard on their youth set-up over there.

"It's about identity as a nation and they've got that.

"If you look at their team, it's a powerful team. If you are looking at a team of athletes, they are right up there.

"They are powerful but they've got match-winners in their team as well.

"If you are looking at the World Cup - if they qualify from this group, which I'm sure they will - they will be right up there.

"And in the Euros after that they are going to be a force.

Source: PA