Intro:

Scotland coach Gordon Strachan looks ahead to his side's potentially crucial Euro 2016 qualifying Group D match against the Republic of Ireland in Glasgow on Thursday.

Script:

SOUNDBITE (English) Gordon Strachan, Scotland coach:

(on the build-up to the game)

"Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. I think we're all looking forward to it. I think the fans, media, everything. It's been built up over the last couple of weeks, you know, from... emphasis about six months ago on England (the upcoming friendly international against England), it's all been shifted onto this game because of the performances of both countries. And the expectations now of supporters, players, media alike, it's become a hot game and... yeah, enjoyed the build-up, always enjoy the build-up. The players are terrific to work with. I asked them to put in a certain amount of work in and they've done it without complaint and it's good watching good players training. It's a bonus for me to come along and watch good players."

SOUNDBITE (English) Gordon Strachan, Scotland coach:

(on the importance of being well organised against Ireland)

"We can have them organised, in a way that they trust each other. They know what they've got to do. I think that's the best way we are going to be able to handle it. Big games. The atmosphere is not going to be a problem for the players of both sides. I think it will inspire us."

SOUNDBITE (English) Gordon Strachan, Scotland coach:

(on the atmosphere within Celtic Park for the game)

"As I say, tomorrow it is not going to be Celtic Park, tomorrow it is Scotland's park. Tomorrow there will be 50,000 plus Scotland fans going to be in there. As I say to you, that is Scotland's territory tomorrow and they are coming into Scotland's territory."

SOUNDBITE (English) Gordon Strachan, Scotland coach:

(on the strength of the Republic of Ireland's squad and Scotland's ability to match them)

"We know, if you look at their (Republic of Ireland) squad, you go 'he's a good player... he's a good player, he's not playing, he's a good player'. So we know that there's going to be good players playing. The pitch tomorrow night will be full of good players with good attitudes, no matter. There's about 50 players between us and whatever 22 will be playing, it will be a good game of football."