I have stinging Scotland regrets but there is clear way for Euro 2024 stars to smash the glass ceiling – Barry Ferguson

I was lucky enough to live the dream as a footballer. Growing up as a kid, I had ambitions of playing for Rangers and winning trophies with the club I supported, of testing myself against the best in Europe and down south.

I went to bed each night wondering what it would be like to captain Scotland and hear the roar of a sold-out Hampden. And as a man, I was so fortunate to see all those fantasies come true. But the one aspiration I failed to tick off was experiencing a major tournament. And I’ve got to admit, when I sit down with my tea and toast tonight to cheer on Steve Clarke’s side against Germany, there will be a part of me thinking: "I wish it was me”.

I’d have loved to have been there as skipper, standing in the tunnel ready to lead the boys out for the opening game of the Euros. I came close to it on a couple of occasions with those heartbreaking defeats to England and the Dutch in the play-offs and that cruel defeat to Italy in 2007.

It wasn’t to be for the Scotland side I played for but I’m so glad today’s team are getting their moment in the tournament spotlight. I'm sure Steve and his men are feeling every bit as excited as the Tartan Army soldiers who have been flooding into Munich all week.

I just hope they embrace the occasion because I believe all the pressure is on Germany. The hosts have plenty of top players but let’s be honest, they’re not the force they once were and I really believe Scotland can get something out of this game.

So my message is go for it! I don’t want them to be left sitting here like me in 20 year’s time harbouring regrets and mulling over the what-ifs.

They’ve qualified for the tournament on merit and fully deserve their place on the biggest stage. Now they need to believe they