Eck Inspired By Wobbles From Azzurri

Nov 11 2007 By Mark Guidi

ALEX McLEISH believes his Scotland side can draw inspiration from the way Australia and the USA played against Italy at last year's World Cup Finals.

During the group stages the USA drew 1-1 with the Italians and that was after Marcello Lippi's side took the lead and the Americans were forced to play with nine men against 10.

In the quarter-finals in Germany the Aussies lost to a controversial injury-time Francesco Totti penalty that sent the Azzurri through with a 1-0 win they scarcely deserved.

McLeish feels both sides could easily have won and hopes the World Champions don't carry as much luck at Hampden on Saturday.

He said: "I think back to the World Cup and how Australia and USA played against Italy and I take great optimism from both games.

"There's no doubt Italy are beatable and we are capable of winning.

"France defeated them in this section and we have beaten France, home and away. That also gives us confidence.

"I know I won't have to remind the players, but we need just one more titanic effort from them.

"If we beat Italy it will give us a clean sweep of victories at Hampden in this section.

"We have belief in our ability and will look to start the game positively and with controlled aggression, a true British style.

"But it is important to keep 11 men on the pitch. If you lose control for a split second then you can lose a man and the last thing we need is to be playing the game with 10 men.

"Whatever antics are going on, on or off the ball, we must not take the bait. We must keep our heads and I'm sure the players will."

McLeish has nothing but respect for the ability and quality in the Italian squad and said: "We can't play Italy at an open game because of their great ability.

"Italy always play within a system that they feel can get them a victory.

"Yes, the midfield always protect their back four but they also have match winners within their style and system.

"They often play with just one striker and that can look defensive but they can attack at speed in great numbers."

The Scotland boss already knows his line-up and formation but will take as much care selecting the right guys to sit on the bench.

James McFadden and Craig Beattie have came on as subs in recent games and scored vital goals and Big Eck feels that might be required again.

He said: "I will look to select players that can off the bench to make an impact, whether we need to score a goal or tighten things up at the back."