A video montage of some of Scotland’s greatest moments has helped to inspire defender Grant Hanley for the task of ending his country’s long absence for a major tournament.
It is 20 years since Scotland last qualified for a competition finals, with Alex McLeish the manager tasked with halting the misery by reaching the 2020 European Championships following the departure of Gordon Strachan in the wake of the failed campaign for this summer’s World Cup in Russia.
McLeish is in his second tenure in charge of the national team, having previously overseen a valiant attempt to qualify for EURO 2008 which included a 1-0 victory over France at Parc des Princes.
As part of his first briefing to his much-changed squad ahead of the friendly double header against Costa Rica and Hungary, McLeish delved into the archives to source some moments of glory from the past, and Norwich City defender Hanley insists it has put an extra spring in his step.
Dumfries-born Hanley said: “We met up on Sunday night and had our first meeting with the manager. It was good for him to speak to all the boys together for the first time.
“He just wanted to get us all together and make sure we know we can achieve something with Scotland. He told us we all have the ability and talent to do it.
“Within that, he explained what he expects from us.
“He spoke to us and also showed us video footage. It showed some of the good moments Scotland have had down the years, going back in time but also more recent stuff as well.
“I think that kind of motivational stuff works. If you watch those moments, it does inspire you. For me personally, that type of thing is always good.
“James McFadden’s goal in Paris was included, for example, and stuff like that makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
“It’s great for the boys to look at stuff like that. Everyone has to take it their own way but I think the boys will take inspiration from it.”
Former Blackburn Rovers defender Hanley was previously a mainstay in the side, however he drifted out of contention during the last qualifying campaign after struggling to command a first team spot following a move to Newcastle United in summer 2016.
Regular football has come Hanley’s way again after making the move to Norwich City at the start of this season and although he is relishing the chance to be part of McLeish’s new era, the 26-year-old acknowledges the increased competition he faces from uncapped pair Scott McKenna, of Aberdeen, and Celtic’s Jack Hendry.
Hanley, who has 28 caps to his name, added: “Personally, I feel good at the moment because I’m back playing regularly again at club level.
“If you are playing for your club, you are obviously going to have a better chance of playing at international level.
“I was left out of the last squad, which I was gutted about. But I could totally understand why.
“Now I’m just glad to be back and it’s up to me to train well and show the manager what I can do.
“The competition is good for everyone. The boys who are getting called up aren’t here for no reason. They are obviously quality players and the competition for places is a good thing.
“The better the players you are competing with for a place in the team, ultimately you are only going to drive each other on to be better. That’s a very important part of any squad.”
