Butcher backs Burley to take strain

Speculation about Burley's future has increased since the 4-0 defeat by Norway in Oslo last month which left Scotland needing all six points in the forthcoming double-header against Macedonia and Holland at Hampden if they are to have a chance of a November play-off spot.

"George is the same, he hasn't changed," the Scotland assistant manager said. "He doesn't necessarily read the papers or listen to the hype."

Failure to attain second place in Group Nine, where Scotland lie in third place with seven points from six games, will surely mean the end for the former Hearts and Derby boss.

However, Butcher, who played with Burley at Ipswich Town, insists the Scotland boss is remaining upbeat ahead of the visit of the Macedonians on Saturday.

"It has been very trying but that is part of football management," he added. "We all have had that before, we've all had the sack and we've all faced difficult decisions and difficult games.

"But George is still the same, the way he addressed the players on Tuesday night in his meeting was very positive.

"He has been positive all the campaign though, he's one of the most positive men I have met in my life. There is a lot at stake but it is not beyond us. A lot of people have already written us off but I don't see that to be the case.

"It's typical Scotland if I may say that. It's do-or-die and it's coming down to the last games. There is never any breathing space for Scotland, there are no dead rubbers, that is never the case.

"Results have to be achieved and it has caught the imagination of the public. It's 'Saltire Saturday' and I'm sure everyone will bring a flag along."