McManus burning for Bari chance
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Article summary
Defender Stephen McManus is hoping his recent experience of facing AC Milan with Celtic FC could benefit Scotland as Group B's leaders take on Italy.
Article body
Stephen McManus is hoping Celtic FC's UEFA Champions League experience will help Scotland create an upset tonight as they seek a first win in Italy in an intriguing UEFA EURO 2008™ Group B qualifier.
Commanding display
The 24-year-old Celtic centre-back made his first start for Scotland in Saturday's 2-1 victory against Georgia at Hampden Park, earning plaudits for a commanding performance alongside veteran David Weir. Yet with club mate Steven Pressley available again after suspension, McManus faces an anxious wait to see if he retains his place against the Azzurri. "That's up to the manager but if called upon I am confident I can do a good job against Italy," McManus told uefa.com.
Confidence
"I am a confident type of player and I really enjoyed my first full game for Scotland. I have shown I am capable of playing at this level and the other boys respect me because of that." McManus earned plaudits for his assured performance in Celtic's UEFA Champions League first knockout round tie against AC Milan and, having taken the Italian giants to extra time before losing out to an inspired goal from Brazilian Kaká, the defender is keen to add to his continental experience at Bari's San Nicola Stadium.
Personal ambition
"As a footballer you want to play at the best level you can," said McManus. "We acquitted ourselves quite well in the UEFA Champions League this season and that standard sets you up nicely for international football. I want to become the best player I can possibly be and to do that you have to play against the best players in the world. Italy are the current world champions and it goes without saying I'd like to play against them."
No pressure
With Scotland five points ahead of their hosts atop Group B, McManus insists all the pressure is on Roberto Donadoni's side - which might play into the hands of the Scots. "If we had drawn against Georgia there would be a bit of pressure on us to get something out of the Italy game, but in a way we have nothing to lose now," said McManus. "The pressure is all on them and if we can keep it tight in midfield and do not concede too many free-kicks around the box, we have a chance of causing an upset."
