Strachan insists: “This is our time”
GORDON STRACHAN last night stoked hopes of an end to Scotland’s World Cup wilderness years by declaring: “This is our time”.
The Scots kick off their Russia 2018 qualifying campaign in Malta tonight knowing anything less than a win will seriously damage their chances.
But Strachan insists his side are on the right track to reach a first major tournament for 20 years.
“It is my belief that this is our time,” said Strachan. “We’ve got to look to carry another three or four points than we did the last campaign.
“But there’s no real target – I’ve never done that anywhere in my life as a manager.
“Just get on, enjoy it, enjoy the challenge and see where you end up.
“I’ve been excited for the last couple of weeks and even more so since meeting up with the players.
“I’ve enjoyed the attitude of the players, working with good players and good professionals.
“I’m very excited about the new campaign.”
Strachan’s excitement has been tempered, though not completely extinguished, by the challenge presented by Malta.
They may be ranked 176th in the world and without a win in more than a year, but the Scotland boss insists they will be a tough nut to crack on their own turf.
And in support of his argument, he highlighted the difficulties some of football’s real top dogs have faced at the Ta’Qali national stadium.
“What we do know about Malta is they are very difficult to beat here,” he said.
“Croatia were one of the best sides at the Euros and they only won 1-0.
“Austria were the same, another European Championships side, they only won 2-1 and Italy, 2-1.
“That says it all about Malta. I don’t know where these rankings come from. It’s a complete and utter nonsense to have a side who only lose 1-0 to Croatia at 176th in the world.
“I don’t know what computer works it out but they should take it away and get it fixed.
“Anybody who knows anything – and I mean anything – about football knows this is not going to be easy.”