But nearly all the 22-man squad have emphasised their commitment to the competition in a way that has delighted manager Craig Brown.

Scotland set off for their base in the south of France on Friday and Brown revealed: "I cannot think of one player who won't be doing some kind of fitness work next week.

"They have become their own personal trainers in an attempt to stay in shape. That only goes to show how determined the players are to succeed in France."

Brown said: "That's one of the main reasons why we are here, so we can face similar conditions to what it will be like in France.

"I think it would be wrong to over-emphasise the match with Brazil. We would prepare in much the same way whether it was Brazil or San Marino.

"Our preparations are going well and the squad as a group are looking bright and lively and totally focused.