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Burley welcomes Maradona scrutiny

18/11/2008

George Burley has welcomed the extra attention that is on Scotland's friendly with Argentina as a result of it being Diego Maradona's first match as manager.

There had been some fears raised as the Scottish side desperately need a win to boost their confidence after an indifferent start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, but Burley insists this is just the type of game he wants for his side.

"This is a tremendous game for Scotland to have," said Burley.
"We have to go and perform well and try to get something out of the game as we build on things for the Holland game - another top 10 country in the world."

"We're in second position in our World Cup group, with everything to play for."

"It will be great to see the flair and excitement the Argentina players have in their lockers. They certainly won't be sitting behind the ball.

"Sergio Aguero is one of the best young players in the world and it will be terrific for the fans to see talent like that.

"The whole world's press will be at Hampden. That's brilliant."

Burley, who confirmed that Barry Ferguson will captain his side after recovering from injury, has happier memories of playing against Maradona than his assistant Terry Butcher.

Butcher yesterday admitted he still hasn't forgiven the Argentine legend for his Hand of God goal in 1986 but Burley, who was in the Scotland team beaten 3-1 in Glasgow in 1979 by Argentina when Maradona scored his first international goal, has a different opinion.

"Maradona was the greatest player I've ever played against," Burley added.

"It's one game from my international career game that sticks in my mind. He was quicker with the ball than without it; once he had the ball at his feet you couldn't catch him.

"He's a legend in Argentina and now he'll be out to prove himself a world class manager."