Caldwell relishing tough test

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By Chris Burton   Last updated: 18th November 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Caldwell relishing tough test

Caldwell: Calling for positive performance

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Gary Caldwell insists Scotland head into their contest with Argentina on Wednesday brimming with confidence.

The glamour tie at Hampden Park may only be a friendly, but it will allow the Scots an opportunity to test themselves against one of the world's premier international outfits.

A positive result against the South American giants would provide a much-needed confidence boost following a slow start to their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign.

With Diego Maradona's recent arrival in the Argentine managerial hot-seat adding extra spice to the occasion, Caldwell is adamant that Scotland will give no quarter to their illustrious opponents.

"We took this game on to get a big match and a good atmosphere," Celtic defender Caldwell told the Daily Record.

"It's obviously in preparation for Holland (on 28th March) and it will be similar in terms of playing a very technical side. We'll have to be at our best if we want to take something.

"It will be great to be involved. You play football to play against the best players and Argentina have got them.

"We'll try to do what we do well and get a positive performance."

Struggling

Argentina, like Scotland, have made a shaky start on the road to South Africa, and Caldwell is hoping that George Burley's men can prolong their agony and condemn Maradona to defeat in his first game in charge.

"A win on Wednesday would give us the confidence to really kick on and try to cement second place in the section (Group 9)," he added.

"I think it will be a wee bit different from a normal friendly. Maradona will bring something to the team straight away.

"They have been struggling a bit in their qualification group but with such a big national hero now in as manager, you can read quotes from all the players saying how much they want to play and do well.

"They will come out and want to put on a show for him. We're going to have to be ready for that.

"It's a long way to the Holland game and we couldn't put up with people grumbling all the way to March. Hopefully we can get a positive result.

"You can only enjoy it if you win - our club manager would say that as well. Although you want to appreciate the occasion, we have to get the performance right. We are representing the country and will do all we can to get a positive result."