THE build-up to Scotland's World Cup qualifier on 12 August is proving divisive. Or, more accurately, the fact there won't be a build-up to speak of.
Initially, there was support for a week's delay to the start of the Scottish Premier League season, after the governing body relented to pressure from George Burley. Now, there are concerns that, in saving his players from a league game four days bef
ore their Oslo visit, Burley will have little or no guide in terms of form and fitness when selecting his team to face Norway.
Those based in the English Championship or facing European qualifiers will see action before joining the Scotland squad. But some of the squad will end ten weeks without a meaningful game when facing a Norwegian team whose domestic league will then be at the midway point.
The fact does not perturb Scotland coach Steven Pressley, however. In announcing his retirement from playing last week, the match will also be the 35-year-old's next notable assignment – unless, of course, he is given the coaching or management position he seeks.
It is the old player within that has him promoting the view that the 12 August slot could suit the Scots. "People have talked about how the players will have a lack of match sharpness and fitness but I'm not sure I believe in that," he says. "From my own experiences, I felt better in the early games of the season. Probably from the first game to the seventh or eighth was when I was at my fittest and strongest. So I think the game comes at a good time for us. There will be an energy, sharpness and desire from the players."
At the weekend he heads over to the under-21 championships as part of the field work for his pro-licence. "It will be a chance to watch and learn, as well as network and make good contacts."
Pressley believes his Scotland duties have allowed him to build good contacts with assistant coach Terry Butcher, and cement those he previously enjoyed with former Hearts manager Burley. It was reported that Butcher's position in the national set-up might prove unworkable following his Inverness Caledonian Thistle side's relegation. The problem could come with First Division fixtures clashing with international dates. "I've thoroughly enjoyed working with Terry, he's a very impressive man. We may have to pick some Caley Thistle players to ensure his availability. I think we have mixed well as a backroom team. I have formed a good relationship with Terry. I always had a good relationship with George. We are very tight. Nothing gets out. We all trust each other and that is very important in a management team."
For that arrangement to continue Butcher must now trust in those who are themselves entrusted with compiling the Scottish Football League fixtures.
