The former goal machine believes the football authorities need to be doing more for the national team
20:05, 24 Jun 2026
Ian Wright gives his take on Scottish football
View 2 Images
Ian Wright gives his take on Scottish football
Scotland are still in the hunt to make history this month by becoming the first Dark Blues team to reach the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
But ahead of their mega World Cup group C showdown with five-time winners Brazil, the country's football authorities have come under a stinging attack from an unlikely source - England and Arsenal hero Ian Wright.
The former striker is in the States on punditry duty for ITV at the World Cup and has told football chiefs back home that they are letting the country down on a 'massive scale'.
Wright also made reference to the financial disparity between the Scottish Premiership and Norway's Eliteserien, who's average crowds on a weekly basis are merely a fifth of what Scotland can offer.
Scotland's top flight has also been the subject of severe criticism in recent years because of the lack of young, homegrown players being handed opportunities at first team level.
Ian Wright
View 2 Images
Arsenal legend Ian Wright(Image: Getty Images)
Speaking on ITV, Wright said: "When you look at it, they've had two shots on target in two games.
"I feel sorry for Scotland and I feel sorry for the fans. Someone asked me the other day 'what can Scotland do next?' and I think it goes a lot deeper than that.
"When you look at Norway, a country the same size as Scotland, are averaging six or seven thousand on a weekly basis (at domestic games) in attendances and Scotland are averaging 16,000.
"But Norway have managed to get a broadcast deal that's (worth) £25million a year more than Scotland.
"Obviously they have got a better commercial outfit than them but at the same time, you look at Scotland and their raw materials; amazing attendances, talent, storylines and grassroots partcipation.
"Somebody in Scotland is letting down this country on a massive scale. They are very proud of their tourists all over the world but they have got to do more.
Article continues below
"There has got to be a bolder, braver vision for Scottish football, for me."
Get Daily Record Premium for just £1 per month in an exclusive offer to celebrate the World Cup. Click HERE .