Keeping the faith
● Strachan floored by England draw but still believes Scotland can qualify for Russia
Gordon Strachan has urged the Tartan Army to believe like he does in Scotland’s ability to reach the World Cup finals.
The manager was still recovering yesterday after Saturday’s 2-2 draw with England. Strachan suffered along with the home fans as the visitors snatched a late draw following two inspirational free-kicks from Leigh Griffiths, pictured.
In a matter of minutes Scotland’s World Cup hopes were revived and then seemingly nixed by Harry Kane’s equaliser in time added on. But Strachan, whose position would have been in serious doubt had Scotland lost, remains confident his team can still progress.
“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t,” said Strachan when asked if he truly feels Scotland can still earn a playoff spot. “If I didn’t believe it I think it would rub off on the players. The players can sniff that.”
While he stressed his determination to carry on, Strachan admitted the roller-coaster experience of leading Scotland can take a toll. Scotland’s campaign was re-ignited by a late winner from Chris Martin against Slovenia in March but now seems almost moribund after Kane’s intervention.
Scotland have four Group F fixtures left and will most probably need to take maximum points to secure second place, which even then might not be enough to qualify for the play-offs.
Strachan has every intention of being around for Scotland’s next qualifier, away to Lithuania in September. Mark Mcghee, Strachan’s assistant, had described Saturday’s clash v England as “must win” while Strachan was more circumspect, describing it as “must not lose”. But there’s little doubt three points are required from the trip to Lithuania.
“Listen, we will go for the next one,” he said. “I am sure Mr Mcghee will say it’s a must-win game! I will leave