14 Nov 2007
Scottish Secretary Des Browne has sent a personal message of support to Scotland manager Alex McLeish and the Scotland squad ahead of their crucial European Championship qualifier with Italy on Saturday.
Des Browne wrote:
"Dear Alex,
"Good luck to you and the whole Scotland squad for Saturday's game. When we were drawn in this group, no-one dared believe that we would be in with a chance at this stage. In a lifetime of supporting football, I have never been prouder of a Scotland team.
"I believe you will win on Saturday. Whatever the result, all of Scotland is proud of you. Your achievements have gained global recognition and are a result of world class leadership and management combined with skill, team spirit and collective endeavour. In other words, you are a great team.
"On a personal note, I want to thank you for the sheer joy of sharing the victories over France and Ukraine, as a fan at Hampden Park. There is nothing like it. Already, I am experiencing pre-match nerves but I wouldn't swap them for the world.
"Please pass on my best wishes to your whole coaching team and squad.
"Best wishes
Yours ever
Des Browne
Secretary of State for Scotland"
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