Ex-Scotland bosses Craig Brown and Walter Smith join host of Scots celebs backing England’s bid for World Cup glory
Brown, 78, insists it's wrong for Scots to hope their neighbours fail
EX-SCOTLAND bosses Craig Brown and Walter Smith tonight joined a host of celebs backing Harry Kane-inspired England’s shock bid for World Cup glory.
Brown, 78, insisted it’s “wrong” for the Tartan Army to hope they lose tomorrow’s semi with Croatia.
And Smith, 70, wished Gareth Southgate’s side “good luck” — and said he had “no problem” with the idea of them winning the whole thing.
Famous Scots including The Krankies and Ally McCoist agreed with the veteran gaffers — but the prospect of a Russia 2018 triumph for England still struck fear into other Scots and Hampden footsoldiers.
Last night Brown, who led the nation to our last World Cup in France 98, said: “I would be quite okay with England doing well. For us to want less than success for England is probably unfair because we’ve made such a contribution to English football.
“It’s wrong of us to want England to lose although when we play them I want to hump them.
“The manager is a decent guy and he deserves to do well. Most of the players are the same.”
And former Rangers and international gaffer Smith admitted: “I have no problem with the idea of England winning the World Cup.
“If they’re the best team and deserve to lift the trophy then good luck to them. England have played well in periods and could well go all the way.”
Old Firm idols Ally McCoist and Frank McAvennie, telly favourite Alex Norton and The Krankies are among those supporting the Three Lions.
ITV co-commentator McCoist, 55, declared he’s “not ashamed to admit I was cheering on England” when they beat Sweden 2-0 in the quarters.
And The Krankies’ Ian Tough, 71, said: “We’ve watched all of the games and have been cheering on England.
“Southgate has put together a great young team who’ve been a breath of fresh air from the usual prima donnas.”
Wife Janette, 71, added: “When we moved south in 1966 England seemed to get a great lift from winning the World Cup. We’ve lived here most of our lives and have lots of English friends so I hope for their sakes they do it again.”
Taggart star Norton, 68, said he’ll stay friendly with our neighbours. He said: “As my London-born sons are all cheering on England, I’ve been cheering along with them.”
And Scottish Sun on Sunday columnist Macca, 58, insisted he “wouldn’t have a problem” if England win.
He said: “I still have a lot of friends down in England. People up here try to bring politics into it but it’s nothing to do with politics. It’s The World Cup.
“Southgate has got a plan and they could get to the final. I wouldn’t be too unhappy if England did though.”
But a host of Scots claimed gloating pundits and biased commentators turn them off backing the Auld Enemy.
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Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh, 59, said he couldn’t support them as “I have been getting wound up by pals from West Ham about it”.
And BBC footie presenter Chick Young, 67, added: “I always start off with the best will in the world of supporting England until the arrogance and the swagger of commentators kicks in.”
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Rab C Nesbitt actor Tony Roper went on: “The thought of the constant droning on about this England team if they win sends shudders through me.”
And singer Sydney Devine, 78, said: “My head’s bursting already at the thought of England winning it.
“I’ve had to listen to them going on about the last one since 1966. So I can’t bear the thought of another.”
Asked if he’s supporting England, wrestler Grado, 30, didn’t need long to decide: “Am I f***.”
On the Scottish Sun’s Facebook and Twitter poll, 71 per cent do not want England to win the World Cup.
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