We can qualify for World Cup, says Strachan
GORDON STRACHAN believes he can guide Scotland to the World Cup in Russia after explaining why he decided to extend his contract as national coach.
And captain Scott Brown has pledged to remain by the 58-year-old’s side by continuing his international career.
Strachan penned a new SFA deal until the summer of 2018 on Friday following a week-long professional and personal consultation process at the end of a failed Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.
There is no competitive action until the September 4 trip to Malta when Scotland kick off a section that also features England, Slovakia, Slovenia and Lithuania.
As part of his due diligence last week, the manager weighed the prospects of improving his Scotland squad and ending a 20-year exile from major tournaments via that group.
Speaking at Fir Park in his role as TV pundit yesterday, Strachan said: ‘Two months ago, it was simple — I thought this is fantastic, I like this job.
‘Then there was a bit of a hiccup, so how does everyone feel now? So you have to speak to the board, coaching staff, players, family and take all that into consideration.
‘There was a lot that was right. As a manager, what I did enjoy was watching us play at times.
‘The players’ attitude is the most important thing because you can think that we can get better — and we will get better. You look at the group and think: “Can we qualify?” The answer is “Yes”.
‘I don’t need anyone else’s opinion on that one because I look at that myself and say can we qualify with the group we’ve got and the players we’ve got and the answer is: “Yes, we can”. And with the support we have got? “Yes, we can”.’
Brown’s declaration of commitment is a significant boost for Strachan’s cause.
Asked if he still wanted to be part of the international set-up after leading Celtic to their 1-0 victory at Motherwell yesterday, Brown said: ‘Yeah, definitely. He’s been a great manager for me. He’s been huge throughout my Celtic career and Scotland career as well.
‘I owe a lot to him.’