Scots Stint Was Berti's Career Low

Jan 13 2008

Vogts: Suffered In Scotland

BERTI VOGTS reckons he suffered more pressure as Scotland boss than during eight years in the Germany hotseat.

The 61-year-old came in for harsh criticism while in charge of his homeland despite leading them to Euro 96 glory.

Yet he still maintains he was given a tougher time in his miserable two-year reign as manager of Scotland - and believes it's a miracle he lasted as long as he did.

Vogts, now boss of Nigeria, said: "When I analyse my career it's a miracle I managed two years as coach of Scotland given the pressure from all parts. "In fact it was even harder than Germany.

"After my stay in Kuwait I wanted to experience football in another country and initially it was good in Scotland but after that it became the worst time of my sporting career.

"Some people didn't accept a foreign coach but it was nothing to do with being German.

"If a Spaniard or Italian had arrived I'msure they would have had similar problems."

Vogts was speaking in Marbella where he's preparing for the African Nations Cup. He still keeps an eye on Scotland and maintains there is plenty of quality in the national team.

He said: "I am adamant the Scots have good players. You just have to look at their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

"It was a big effort from Scotland, especially with France and Italy in the group, and their performances merited qualification for the finals."