After a heroic campaign, it's now do or die for Scotland against Italy

After all that has gone before, including a double over France and an impressive trashing of Ukraine on Saturday, Scotland suffered their third defeat of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign with a 2-0 loss away to Georgia.

Given the hightened expectations, this has somewhat predictably led to a mood of recrimination and bitter disappointment, with the Scotsman, for example, describing it as the "collapse" of the heroic run to next summer's competition. The Beeb's "expert analysts" (fortunately Alan Hansen managed to watch the game for once, as it didn't clash with England) all felt it was a poor performance. But Scotland, unlike England, still have their fate in their own hands. A victory over Italy at Hampden next month, irrespective of other results, and we will be back at the international top table after a decade of failure. If France lose against Ukraine (unlikely, but not impossible) then a point will do.

It wasn't an impressive display, that's for sure. But then, it wasn't an easy tie either, despite Georgia's own injury problems. With both first choice full-backs out, no Paul Hartley, Scott Brown or Lee McCulloch from midfield, and a half-fit Barry Ferguson and Darren Fletcher, it was a patched-up Scotland team, and this second game in 4 days was a step too far. The SFA's decision to debut a third choice maroon strip for this game may have had a small psychological effect, too, especially as Scotland could have played in the traditional dark blue jersey that reminds us all of fighting the English and "being a nation again".

It is absolutely critical that Scotland can field its best possible team in a month's time. And this is where the clubs can play their part - especially the Old Firm, who between them supply so many players to the national squad these days. Pray that there is no "club v country" posturing over the hamstrings of Scott Brown and Alan Hutton, and that Ferguson and Fletcher get the opportunity to get themselves match fit.

Celtic and Rangers may protest that they should only look after their best interests, and not be obliged to do Scotland any favours. Yet qualification for Euro 2008 would bring such benefits in terms of heightened prestige and profile for the Scottish game that it would have beneficial consequences for the Old Firm as well. Scottish football went through a long lean period, and next summer's competition could still herald our renewed strength. If the two Glasgow clubs can't recognise that, they are even more myopic than many people suppose.