Scots manager expects early hurly-burly

The Scots will travel to the Ullevaal Stadium looking for the victory which will cement their second spot in Group Nine behind section winners Holland, whereas defeat for Egil Olsen's side will take Norway out of the equation for the play-off spot.

"We have to be strong, especially early on," the Scotland boss said. "The first goal is always very important in international games. We are going to play our own game but we will be aware that they will come at us because they are desperate for a win."

He added: "Holland ran away with the group which we expected.

"The rest of us have taken points off each other but we know that Norway will be out to get three points so it's going to be tough.

"We are aware of the quality Norway have in their side but it's about us and how we play."

Celtic midfielder Scott Brown, yet to start a competitive game after undergoing ankle surgery at the end of last season, is likely to partner Darren Fletcher in the heart of the Scotland midfield, a decision which will find favour with Burley's captain.

"Scott is a top player and it's great to play beside him," Fletcher said. "We have played a few games beside each other and we respect each other's game.

"It is exciting because we are both relatively young, although obviously there are other players who want to be in this position as well so it's up to us to keep performing to keep performing.

"But the more we play together, the better understanding we will have and hopefully we will be able to take the country forward."