Colin Hendry reflects on Scotland’s World Cup return and urges belief in new generation

Former Scotland captain Colin Hendry has described the country’s long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup as “a great honour”, while expressing confidence that Steve Clarke’s side can progress further under revised qualification rules.

Scotland are set to feature at the World Cup for the first time in 28 years, marking a significant moment for a national side that last appeared on the global stage during Hendry’s own playing era, when he led the team as captain.

Reflecting on that experience, Hendry admitted it remains difficult to fully articulate what representing his country at that level meant to him.

“It was such a great honour for me, without a shadow of a doubt,” he said.

The former centre-back, who skippered Scotland at their last World Cup appearance, said the achievement still stands as one of the defining moments of his career, even as he now looks on from the sidelines at a new generation preparing to take on the tournament.

Hendry also pointed to changes in the modern qualification and playoff structure, suggesting they may offer Scotland a better platform to progress than in previous eras.

“The laws have changed, the rules have changed a wee bit to benefit those teams making the playoff stages,” he said, adding that he believes Scotland can take advantage of that opportunity.

Despite the challenges of competing on the world stage, Hendry expressed optimism about the current squad’s chances, backing them to make an impact once the tournament begins.

“I really do think Scotland will make it this time,” he said. “Fingers crossed.”