Lyndon Dykes feels Scotland have every right to believe that they can shock Spain and set themselves up perfectly for a crack at Euro 2024 qualification.
The Scots began their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Cyprus on Saturday, but they face a far more formidable task on Tuesday when they welcome Group A’s top seeds to Hampden.
Spain started with a 3-0 win at home to Norway, but striker Dykes is adamant his team have built a sense of “togetherness” that should allow them to go into the match with no fear.
“The mindset should be that we can win every game we play,” he said. “I’ve said that since I came into the Scotland set-up.
“We’ve got great players who play in the Premier League, probably the best league in the world, and we’ve got great depth, so we need to be positive and make sure the crowd are behind us and that make it a hard game for Spain.
“It would give us a major boost going forward in the whole competition if we can win this game. If you can pick up six points in the first two games, it’s going to be a major step forward, especially against a team like Spain.
“It won’t be easy though. We have to be focused and carry out the game plan.
“What we’ve built as a team and the togetherness in the group has got us through games and games like this against big teams is when we need it the most.
“Being at home with the crowd behind us, we have to make sure we bring that on the night.”
Dykes, who endured a pneumonia scare earlier this year, came off the bench on Saturday and played a key role as Scotland finished strongly against Cyprus.
With Che Adams having withdrawn from the squad through injury, the QPR player is expected to lead the attack from the start against Spain.
“I was really happy to be back out there on the pitch with the boys and in front of the fans after a little tough spell,” he said of his impact on Saturday. “I was just happy to help the boys get the result.
“I want to start every game for Scotland. I’ve done well since I came into the set-up but we’ve got great competition.
“Obviously Lawrence Shankland has come in now and he’s had a great season. If I get the nod on the night, I’ll be doing my best. The manager knows what I can bring, we’ve got a great relationship.”
