Scotland's Euro 2024 qualification happened because we have more belief, says star

Cambuslang’s Kenny McLean says Scotland’s new-found belief has taken them to the Euro 2024 finals in Germany.

Steve Clarke’s side qualified with two games to spare when Spain beat Norway 1-0 on Sunday, also sealing the Spaniards’ passage to Germany next summer.

McLean played a pivotal role in qualification, scoring a late winner in Oslo to down Norway back in June.

And he might be in line to earn his 34th cap in tonight's friendly against France in Lille, from a squad that also includes Bologna midfielder Lewis Ferguson from Quarter, near Hamilton.

After securing qualification, Scotland are playing for top spot in the group when they visit Georgia and host Norway next month in their last two games.

And McLean says they’re brimming with confidence.

The 31-year-old former Cathkin High School pupil said: “We’ve done well to build a bit of momentum and togetherness.

“We won’t be shouting anything from the rooftops, but we know the quality and ability we have.

“Throw in that spirit and the way we fight for each other, and we have a chance against anybody.

“The change in mentality comes from winning games.

“We know what we’ve got and everyone can now see it. We have players at the very top level, they come away and do the business.

“We are very hard to beat, now. We concede few goals and at the top end of the pitch, the lads are doing well.

“We know we have the quality to beat any team. That’s the mentality we have now.”

Midfield ace McLean recently signed a long-term contract at Norwich City that could keep him at Carrow Road until he’s 35, and while he’s not a regular starter with his national team, McLean knows Clarke values him as part of his squad.

He said: “I hope I’m low maintenance as a player.

“Everyone with Scotland