'I thought we were pretty rubbish, but who cares', quips McGinn after Scotland drama
John McGinn did not think Scotland played well as they beat Denmark to seal their World Cup spot, but the midfielder cared little.
Scotland were "pretty rubbish" in their remarkable 4-2 win over 10-man Denmark that sealed World Cup qualification, so says John McGinn.
Not that McGinn was complaining after Scotland secured qualification for the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
Substitutes Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean ensured they would go down in Scottish folklore after netting in second-half stoppage time.
Denmark, who were reduced to 10 men midway through the second half, had twice fought back to level the scores at 2-2 before the late drama at Hampden Park.
And McGinn felt Scotland's performance left a lot to be desired, not that he cares much.
"I thought we were pretty rubbish, to be honest, but who cares," the Aston Villa midfielder told BBC Scotland.
"I thought Denmark, with 10 men, moved the ball a bit better, looked more assured. We’ve had a lot of trauma as a Scotland team, we take a lot of hits. To get over the line, it’s an amazing feeling.
"The gaffer’s team talk was exceptional before we left the hotel. What we’ve been through together as players and staff is outstanding. It’s a privilege every time we meet up – just humble guys wanting to do well for their country.
"You can see that every time we’re on the pitch. A few wondergoals, but we’re going to a World Cup. I can’t believe it."
Scott McTominay's overhead kick set the tone for a frantic night in Glasgow, where Rasmus Hojlund's penalty drew Denmark level.
Rasmus Kristensen's red card handed Scotland an advantage that eventually told when Lawrence Shankland bundled home in the 78th minute, only for Patrick Dorgu to equalise before Tierney and McLean made themselves heroes.
And McGinn admitted his mind had already drifted to a play-off clash in March.
"It was horrible. I thought I’d blocked Dorgu’s shot," he added.
"You think it’s another blow, I was thinking about the play-offs in the 91st minute."
Scotland boss Steve Clarke, meanwhile, said he had no doubt that left-back Tierney, who replaced right-back Aaron Hickey, would make an impact on the game.
"I spoke to Kieran before the first game. He's a key player for me, one of my men. I've got loads of them," a jubilant Clarke told BBC Scotland.
"I said, 'Listen, Aaron Hickey can't do back-to-back games, I can see you coming on at right-back and doing very well for us'.
"I'm not sure I envisioned the goal, but when it was rolling back to him on his left foot, I knew he would score."
