Strachan sure it’s our time
time since the 1998 World Cup in France. Strachan said: “It is my belief that this is our time.
“We have to look to carry another three or four points than we did in the last campaign.
“I’ve been excited for the last couple of weeks and even more so since meeting up with the players again. I’m very excited about the new campaign.”
Strachan insisted the entire nation was behind his troops despite the disappointment of the failed Euro 2016 campaign.
And he is convinced his squad have what it takes to finally reward the loyal support.
Strachan said: “What gives me the optimism? Everybody that comes up, touches me, wishes me good luck, says: ‘ Well done last time, you were unlucky.’
“There’s that, there’s the players, the staff, the excitement of what you can achieve.
“It’s all those things – and the fans. They have been absolutely terrific. Thousands are coming here, 12,500 stood in the pouring rain in Gibraltar congratulating the players for their efforts.”
Strachan has handed Darren Fletcher the armband again following Scott Brown’s retirement from international football.
The former Manchester United star is used to leading out the side – and leading by example.
The Scots boss said: “His enthusiasm has never wavered whether he was or wasn’t captain.
“He has been behind us all the way and it’s nice to see him back and fully charged.
“Darren is an invaluable member of this squad.”
Strachan is set to stick to his tried and trusted tonight but would have no fears chucking in £13million kid Oliver Burke after his mega move to Leipzig.
The gaffer said: “When I first named Oliver in the squad everyone in Scotland was saying, ‘ Who’s this? We’ve got better players up here in Scotland.’
“He’s quiet off the pitch, he’s not got the headphones on all the time or a ridiculous hairstyle to say: ‘Hey, I’m different.’
“He goes on the pitch and is different – and that’s the sign of a good player.”