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Scotland manager Smith wary of Italy's striking options [Wed Aug 31st, 2005]
Glasgow (Reuters) - Scotland manager Walter Smith expects an attack-minded Italy in Saturday's World Cup Group Five qualifier at Hampden.
"Marcello Lippi's teams through the seasons have had three strikers playing so it will be no surprise if that was the case," Smith told reporters.
"If you look at the coach's background, it has not been a defensive one, his teams have always been very offensive."
Italy are top of the group with 13 points, while Scotland are languishing second from bottom with just six.
Scotland will not be helped by the absence of Wigan Athletic striker Lee McCulloch and Hibernian's Garry O'Connor for the Italy match and the away clash in Norway four days later.
However Scotland captain Barry Ferguson believes they can pull off a shock and revive their own qualification hopes.
"If we put in a performance like we did in the second half against them in the last match then we have a chance," said the Rangers midfielder.
"They have quality players and are a great team, but I am a positive person and I will be looking for the three points.
"I don't see any reason why we cannot do that, especially with a full house at Hampden.
"If we are being realistic, they are going to win the group, they have the best players and the best squad. But it is a one-off game on Saturday and we have every chance of beating them."
Italy beat Scotland 2-0 in Milan in March.
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