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Striker says Scotland will not be overawed by Italy in World Cup qualifier [Thu Sep 1st, 2005]
Glasgow (Reuters) - Striker Craig Beattie says Scotland will not be overawed by group leaders Italy in Saturday's World Cup qualifier.
The Celtic player said the home qualifier was a massive game for Scotland and talked of how he used to idolise Italian players after watching them on television.
"I used to grow up watching every Sunday and their players were different class. They have some of the best (in the world) but I don't think we will be overawed, we are mentally strong and have seasoned pros," Beattie told reporters on Thursday.
Italy (13 points) lead Group Five from Norway and Slovenia (both 9), with Scotland on six points.
Beattie is a regular in the Scotland under-21s but has yet to be capped at full international level. He was drafted into the squad for last month's friendly in Austria 24 hours after scoring for the under-21s.
"I think every boy wants to play for their country and I am working hard at Celtic to get as many opportunities there. Now I have an opportunity here and I hope to make the most of it."
Beattie has been joined in the Scotland squad by another rookie, Dundee United's Lee Miller, after the withdrawal of Wigan striker Lee McCulloch and Hibernian's Garry O'Connor.
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