Scotland v Switzerland Preview

Walter Smith’s Tartan Army can secure their first friendly success at Hampden Park for a decade if they win today. Until now, the Swiss have never won on Scottish soil. So this should be a lively clash.

Since taking charge in late 2004 Smith has rebuilt team spirit and created a sense of purpose in the Scottish camp. They still have a long way to go, but victory over the World Cup contenders today will put them in good stead for the Euros.

Scotland are continuing to build ahead of their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign which begins in August. They will be aiming to get through to the finals and will still be disappointed not to be in this years World cup finals in Germany.

The Swiss team will see this match as a vital chance to guage their tactics, formations and squad selection for Germany.

Arsenal's Philippe Senderos will lead the defence and he could have Gunners team mate Johann Djourou making his international debut beside him. Both players were in the team that beat Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Midfielders’ Johann Vogel and Raphael Wicky will look to supply the 20-year-old Johann Vonlanthen who is likely to spearhead the strike-force with Alexander Frei.

Certain players will not be joining up with the Scottish team, in particular, striker Garry O'Connor who is trying to set up a move to Lokomotiv Moscow.

With O'Connor missing, James McFadden will partner Kenny Miller in a two-man front-line with two banks of four.

Darren Fletcher, Barry Ferguson and Nigel Quashie (who recently got some negative feedback after a physical challenge in the league) will start in midfield, but the last position is still up for grabs with Wigan duo Lee McCulloch and Gary Teale looking to win his international debut.

Scotland’s defence Gary Naysmith could be recalled at left back, although Christian Dailly could feature there which would allow Gary Caldwell to partner David Weir at the heart of the defence.

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