Spain have nothing to worry about in qualifying group with Scotland, says defender Sergio Ramos

SERGIO RAMOS last night wrote off Scotland's chances of qualifying for Euro 2012 and revealed he can't believe how lucky Spain have been to draw Craig Levein's side.

The Real Madrid defender was delighted when the European Champions came out of the hat with the Scots, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Liechtenstein.

With just four opponents and little travel involved, Ramos reckons it's a plum draw.

He insists Spain will qualify comfortably as Group I winners with the Czechs grabbing the second spot Levein craves. The Scots face a daunting task and Ramos is adamant they are destined to fail. He said: "The draw has been very kind to Spain. I don't think we have anything to worry about.

"We won't be complacent - we'll be professional but I'd bet we will qualify as group winners.

"We don't have to travel too far and that will be a bonus.

"The most important thing will be our mental approach to it.

"Czech Republic will be our main rival, our biggest challenge and the toughest team to beat. Scotland have a lot of tradition but they aren't strong in Euro competition any longer.

"The games in Prague and Glasgow will be the vital ones for Spain but I'm positive qualification is solely in our own hands."

Ramos' team-mate Xavi is also super confident Spain will see off Scotland and the Czechs.

The playmaker can't wait to sample the Glasgow atmosphere again after playing at Ibrox and Parkhead in the Champions League for Barcelona.

Superior

Xavi said: "There are no easy games in any competition but if you analyse our performances during the past few years we feel obliged to finish as leaders in this group.

"We will fight to defend our title at Euro 2012. A group with just five teams is more comfortable for the players because it reduces the number of matches we play.

"My first reaction to the draw was that Czech Republic and Scotland will be our rivals in the group but we believe Spain are superior to both.

"I know all about the atmosphere in Glasgow better than most because I've played there for Barcelona against Celtic and Rangers.

"In all of those matches, victory has been complicated even for a team of Barca's stature.

"But after seeing the draw and looking at other groups, we have to be grateful for the luck we've had.

"Scotland are improving as a nation and have a new manager while Czech Republic have players in big leagues around Europe. But we are clear favourites."

Source:dailyrecord.co.uk/