Football: Hampden Roar Can Help Scots Score

Nov 11 2007 By Mark Guidi

SIR ALEX FERGUSON last night praised Scotland fans for creating spine-tingling atmospheres that have inspired their heroes to the brink of Euro 2008.

The Manchester United boss and patriotic Scot has been blown away by the Tartan Army's backing at Hampden and beyond after attending most of our qualifiers.

And he expects them to crank up the decibels even more to intimidate the Italians this weekend.

Ferguson said: "The atmosphere has been electric, such energy on and off the park. I can't wait to sample it again at Hampden on Saturday.

"The players play with passion and commitment which has spread to the fans - they have rubbed off on one another. They will do the same on Saturday and make it as intimidating as possible."

Sir Alex would love to see the Tartan Army party in Austria and Switzerland next summer.

He said: "I was Scotland manager for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. For a gaffer it's a fabulous experience but there's also a lot of pressure.

"Supporters can have a ball. It has been 10 years since our last Finals but I hope the Scotland fans are there next summer. They're the best in the world."