Scotland

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McLeish won't bottle it

16 Nov 2007 - 14:21:20

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Scotland manager Alex McLeish believes his side has the right mentality to beat Italy and qualify for next summer's Euro 2008 finals.

Scotland have already beaten France twice in the qualifying campaign and, despite losing in Georgia last time out, victory against last year's World Cup winners would see them clinch their place in Austria and Switzerland.

An upbeat McLeish said: "There's massive belief among the squad. We may not win the game but I tell you the players won't bottle it, that's for sure.

"We've been through every emotion in this group and I believe we have the mentality. We don't fear failure.

"We know they have world-class players and we know we have to stop those players. That has to be part of our game-plan. We have to do that to allow our players to strut their stuff.

"If we do have a setback in the game, I wouldn't write these guys off.

"We have a wonderful opportunity. We've always said that in the beginning nobody gave us a prayer to be in this position.

"Now we're in it everybody expects us to win and take care of it against the world champions. That's the expectation levels out there."

Veteran defender David Weir added: "Everyone's looking forward to it. There are a lot of lads with good experience but this has got to be our biggest game.

"There's a lot at stake so it will be a tight game and very nervy."