Ferguson fired up for crunch clash

Barry Ferguson insists Scotland are not even contemplating the prospect of defeat to Italy in Saturday's crunch European Championship qualifier.

Scotland have won every match at Hampden in the qualifying campaign so far and another three points would guarantee success in their quest to come through the 'group of death'.

"I've never been more confident, playing in any Scotland team, about our ability to get a result," said the national team captain. "We are certainly good enough to win. I've always been confident about this team and this squad. We are now ever so close to qualifying, we just need the three points."

He added: "I know we've had a great campaign, people will say that even if we don't get through, but that hasn't even crossed my mind."

Ferguson believes qualification for Euro 2008 would be just the start of many successful years ahead for this Scotland team.

He said: "This is probably the best Scotland team I've played in. We've got a lot of good players and this team can go a long way because there is a lot of youth alongside the experience. It can get better in years to come.

"I would say we've created a bit of a stir, we're up to 13th in the world rankings. I think it's about time that people did sit up and take notice of Scotland."

For all his achievements at club level with Rangers, Ferguson has never been to a major tournament with his country and, as he approaches his 30th birthday, he is well aware time is running out.

"Scotland-wise, maybe even career-wise, this will be my biggest game," he said.

"I just want to get to a major championships with Scotland. That's been the main aim since I started my international career and now I'm one win away from achieving that."