First Minister John Swinney has confirmed his plan to head to the World Cup later this week ahead of Scotland's 28-year return to the big stage. The SNP leader was speaking at the Pride of Scotland awards, held in Glasgow's Hilton hotel on Monday night.
First Minister's World Cup Plans
Swinney said he is heading to Boston later this week before returning after Scotland's first match, which takes place on Saturday local time. He added he would be mixing a little business with football as he looks to bring more investment back to Scotland.
He said: "I'm going out on Thursday night to Boston and I'll see you the first game at the weekend and then I'm coming back. I've got a bit of business to do in the States as well, to bring investment into Scotland.
"But I'm looking forward to be part of the Tartan Army. It's gonna be a frantic few days, but I can't wait. I'm so excited."
Excitement for the Tournament
The First Minister also said he had loved Scotland's win over Denmark, adding the national team are in 'great form' ahead of the next fixture. He said: "I loved the Denmark game. It was so exciting. The match on Saturday was tremendous. I think the team are on great form, so I'm looking forward to it enormously.
"I'm taking my kilt with me. I've taken plenty of tartan ties, so I'm gonna be as tartan clad as I possibly can but I don't have the See You Jimmy hat. I think it would contradict the image."
Pride of Scotland Awards
The FM also paid an emotional tribute to the Pride of Scotland winners, praising their courage, bravery and tenacity at a moving ceremony in Glasgow. Swinney said it was "wonderful to be at Pride of Scotland" and reflected on being back for a second year running.
He said: "I was overwhelmed by the stories, the courage, the bravery, just the tenacity of individual, beautiful stories and I look forward to hearing more tonight."
The First Minister also revealed he had been catching up with some famous faces on the night, adding: "I've just spoken with Elaine C Smith and Sanjeev are here and it has been great to catch up with him."
But it was his dinner table plans that raised eyebrows, with Swinney saying beloved Taggart star Blythe Duff was sitting on his table. He said: "Blythe Duff is on my table and is just such a hero of Taggart. I look forward to see her."
