Sir Alex Ferguson believes Scotland have to beat England at Wembley next month to keep their hopes of reaching the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ alive, but is confident Gordon Strachan’s side will do just that.

England head Group F on seven points from three outings, with Lithuania and Slovenia on five and Scotland a further point back.

"I think they have to win it, but that's not a problem,” said the 74-year-old. “It's a hard section with England in it – Scotland have to win it, but they can win it.

"Scotland always do well against England. It's always a great incentive, the underdog. And the support will be fantastic.

“You go back to the European Championship qualifier when they were very unlucky. Christian Dailly had a header saved by David Seaman right at the end. But Scotland will do well.

“There's always been talent in Scotland, we have a rich history of producing players and I don't think that changes. We've got some excellent players.”

Scotland appeared in six of seven World Cups between 1974 and 1998, but have failed to qualify since.

Strachan was part of a squad coached by Ferguson at Mexico 1986. After firing the Scots ahead against West Germany, the 5ft 6ins midfielder went to jump over the advertising hoardings – only to realise it was too high and instead rested his leg on it!