The issue of diving has dominated the headlines since Arsenal striker Eduardo earned a dubious penalty against Celtic to help the Gunners book their place in the group stages of the Champions League.

And the debate continued north of the border after Celtic's Aiden McGeady was dismissed for diving during their Clydesdale Bank Premier League victory over Hibernian.

Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon then raised eyebrows with his views on the issue when he said Eduardo's two-match ban was "worth it" and questioned whether there would be a similar furore if a Scotland player did the same to earn a World Cup play-off spot.

However, Fletcher is adamant that honesty is always the best policy, regardless of the outcome.

"I'd play honestly every time I play," said the Manchester United midfielder.

"Sometimes a keeper can obstruct you and you stumble and fall and there is a difference between that and diving.

"That's where there is not a clear, defined line about how the referee perceives it.

"But if he doesn't touch me, I'm not going down. That's just the way it is."

Scotland are under pressure to claim six points from their crucial double-header against Macedonia and Holland which could salvage a play-off spot for the World Cup.

And Fletcher believes the expectations when playing for his country are just as high as when representing one of the most high-profile clubs in the world.

He said: "There is massive pressure in both sides and it's just something you learn to deal with.

"Football is high pressure these days but you've got to try to manage that and somehow enjoy it.

"It doesn't matter if I'm playing for Manchester United or Scotland, there is pressure in any job and it's the same with football.

"It's something you have to deal with, get over and then try to focus on winning the match.

"If there's more expectation on me as a Manchester United player, that's fine. It's something I'll take.

"I've got high expectations of myself and no matter how much expectation or pressure the fans put on me, I can assure you, it's not as much as I put on myself to do well for my country."

Pressure has been mounting on manager George Burley since the 4-0 defeat in Norway last month but he was in bullish mood ahead of the clash with Macedonia.

Asked to sum up his feelings ahead of the crunch game which could seal his fate if it does not go to plan, Burley, who batted back questions about his future, retorted: "Excitement. Challenge. Hunger. Desire. Aggression. A bit of honesty.

"I want my country to get to the World Cup. It's all there. There can't be a bigger scene. Hampden. A full house. I'm really looking forward to it.

"We are determined to earn the right to get in to the play-offs. There is a lot of desire.

"The Norway game went against us, it was a horrible result. But if we get a player sent off after 30 minutes and we concede an own goal and play with five centre-halves then we might lose it.

"But under normal circumstances we can win the game on Saturday and I've seen that determination among the squad.

"I think there is a belief and that's what we aim to do."