Although something tells me that the Scots will be doing more defending, than attacking. But, Smith is content with the squad defensive-wise: "We have a good defensive record in the group. Only Norway have a better one than us and that's something we can build on." the deluded manager said.

Last time the two sides met, in the San Siro Stadium, back in march, Scotland suffered a defeat. And people expect them to suffer another defeat. After all, nothing much has changed, has it? Apart from the Scots' mentality: "There is an increasing belief in the squad that we have an opportunity to win games now - regardless of who we are playing against." Although, to some, that quote would be considered laughable.

The last time Scotland beat Italy was way back in 1965! Although it'll be highly unlikely, the, ahem, patriotic people of Scotland (well, about half the population wish to be either English or Irish) hope for a repeat of that night.

Barry Ferguson has recovered from a slight knock, meaning that Smith is expected to play midfield trio Ferguson, Fletcher and Quashie, which will all be available-for the first time. Weir and Webster are likely to be in the heart of the Scottish defence, with Webster replacing the suspended Pressley. The inexperienced Beattie or Lee Miller may start as O'Connor is suffering from a back injury. Walter also has the option of adding the more experienced Thompson or Kenny Miller up-front.

As for Italy, despite midweek sickness, Vieri will be playing. He is expected to play up-front with Gilardino, with Totti playing behind the pair. Pirlo and former Rangers' player Gattuso will be the central midfield pairing. Zambrotta and Zaccardo will probably be the central-midfield pairing. The Italians are without their first-choice 'keeper, Buffon, due to his shoulder injury, which is keeping him out for around 3 months. This means that Perruzi will start in his place.

My prediction: Italy 3-0 Scotland

Scotland's Squad (for Italy and Norway):

Robert Douglas, Craig Gordon, David Marshall, Graham Alexander, Russell Anderson, Steven Caldwell, Christian Dailly, Jackie McNamara, Steven Pressley, Andy Webster, David Weir, Barry Ferguson, Darren Fletcher, Paul Hartley, Neil McCann, Lee McCulloch, Ian Murray, Brian O’Neil, Nigel Quashie, Craig Beattie, James McFadden, Kenny Miller, Garry O’Connor, Steven Thompson.

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