JOHN Swinney has been spotted drinking beer with the Tartan Army ahead of Scotland’s opening match against Germany in the Euros.
The First Minister has paused campaigning in the General Election in order to make the trip to Munich and cheer on Steve Clarke’s men during the first game of the tournament.
Wearing the traditional Tartan Army uniform of a kilt, sporran, and a Scotland top, Swinney posed for photographs with fans from both sides on the streets of Munich.
He was then seen enjoying a pint in one of the city’s many pubs before meeting up with the SNP’s leader at Westminster Stephen Flynn, who has also made the trip to Germany to support Scotland.
“The atmosphere is just phenomenal,” the First Minister told journalists.
“The journey here was just great, mixing with all the Scotland fans that were coming. The Tartan Army has been on great form – you can hear them behind me.
“It’s just been such a lively, vibrant atmosphere and I can’t wait for the game tonight.”
Earlier, Swinney met with European Affairs Minister in the Bavarian State Chancellery Eric Beißwenger.
The German politician said it was a “great honour” to welcome Swinney to Germany on what is his second trip abroad as First Minister.
“Bavaria and Scotland have long maintained close bilateral contacts, which have been gradually expanded and formalised since the early 2000s,” he said.
“We are also united by self-confidence and a certain tendency towards independence."
Scotland v Germany is due to kick-off from the Allianz Arena in Munich at 8pm.
