Smith preparing for toughest task
Walter Smith insists Scotland's European Championships qualifier against France will be the "biggest test of them all".
After winning their opening two Group B games against the Faroe Islands and Lithuania earlier this month, the Scots welcome the French on October 7 at Hampden before taking on Ukraine in Kiev four days later. Smith admits confidence in the Scots camp is high after their start but believes the sell-out crowd at Hampden will witness his team being tested to the limit.
He said: "Every game Scotland play is a big game. After having a decent start and winning our first two matches, obviously we want to try and continue that. But we face the biggest test of them all. In terms of qualifying matches, the French have possibly the best record of any country in the world, they have a tremendous record regardless of who plays for them so it's a huge game for us."
He added: "They have got talented players in every position. And they are a country that can lose one or two players and still maintain a good level.
"We hope that we are making a little bit of progress but this game will give us a full test. With us winning our first two matches and the level of player that France have in their team, it will be a great game for everyone to come and see.
"It's also a great game to be involved in and I am looking forward to it. In fact, the next two games are big matches against a couple of really good teams. But, if we can continue to turn in good performances, then hopefully we will pick up points from them."
