Alex McLeish's men face a crucial double-header against Lithuania and France, the results of which could be pivotal in determining whether they qualify for their first major championship finals since 1998.

Scotland currently lie third in the group, three points behind leaders France, one adrift of world champions Italy, and three ahead of Ukraine.

Italy host France this weekend before travelling to Ukraine, a set of fixtures Aitken believes could benefit his side.

"The great thing is all the teams around us - Italy, France and Ukraine - are playing each other over the next few games," he said on Sky Sports News.

"Come next week, we'll know exactly where we stand in the group.

"The players have done remarkably well in what is probably the most difficult group of all in European Championship qualifying.

"To be in the mix is great and hopefully we can stay there."

McLeish and Aitken took over the Scotland reins after Walter Smith's controversial decision to accept a job offer at Rangers.

Smith had led his country to three wins from their first four qualifiers, and McLeish has so far overseen a relatively seamless transition with two victory from three.

A victory over Lithuania on Saturday will see him match Smith's achievement and Aitken admits three points at Hampden Park are crucial.

"I think the home games are vital in any group competition," he said.

"Lithuania at home is one game we're really looking to take three points from.

"Obviously, going to France is going to be very difficult after that.

"But if you can win your home ties - and we've got three left at home - then we'll be sitting in a very good position.

"We'll take Lithuania first and the France game will look after itself once we get there.

"The Scottish fans have been absolutely fantastic at Hampden Park. There will be 50,000-odd there right behind the team.

"If we can just emulate the performances we've had recently at Hampden, it will be great."

Aitken is expecting a relatively clean bill of health when the players report for training.

"It's looking pretty good overall," he said.

"Kenny Miller was one little doubt last week. He's a fit lad though. He's only had his move to Derby over the weekend.

"We're hoping he is going to come through OK.

"Russell Anderson is another one who is carrying a slight knock.

"Apart from that, everyone else looks to have a fit bill of health so the squad is looking pretty good for the weekend.

"We're missing Barry Ferguson for Saturday's game because of a suspension.

"Apart from that, there's still great quality in the group and it will be a great squad to pick from."