TIME TO END DIRE STRAITS AT ALL AGES

DIRE MEBUDE reckons his goal for Scotland Under-21s this week can keep them on track to qualify... and follow in the big boys’ footsteps.

- BY MARK WALKER

Scot Gemmill’s team are now just three points off top spot in Group B with four games to go in Euro 2027 qualifying.

Portugal top the pile, with Scotland and the Czech Republic level on points behind them - albeit Mebude and Co have played a game more.

The Czechs and Portugal beckon next in March after Mebude stuck away a penalty in Tuesday's 1-0 win over Bulgaria at Fir Park.

And the Westerlo striker is hoping the 21s can stay on track to be the next national side to qualify for a major finals.

Mebude, on the books at Manchester City and Rangers previously, said: “It's a really competitive group. We've now played everyone and there are some really good teams in it. Anything is possible.