Scotland will go for glory in Paisley

St Mirren’s Paisley 2021 Stadium has been announced as the venue for Scotland’s opening UEFA European under-21 Championship qualifier against the Netherlands.

Scot Gemmill’s young side will begin their qualifying campaign against the Dutch on Tuesday, September 5, before a trip across the border to take on England and a home tie against Latvia in an October double-header.

Scotland will also play Ukraine and Andorra in Group 4 as they bid to reach the finals in Italy in 2019.

The nine group winners qualify directly for the final tournament, while the four best runners-up – not counting results against the sixthplaced team – advance to the play-offs.

Scotland warmed up for the qualifiers with a third-place finish at this summer’s Toulon tournament.

Gemmill said:“We’re really looking forward to the start of the qualification campaign and the Netherlands will provide us with a great challenge in our opening match.

“We have played matches at the Paisley 2021 Stadium in recent times and it’s a fantastic venue with a great pitch and facilities.

“I remember Scotland’s under-21side played the Netherlands in Paisley back in 2012 and nearly 7,000 supporters packed out the stadium – the atmosphere was incredible.

“I hope we can attract similar numbers in September to cheer on the team and help get us off to a good start in the group.”