Levein's side failed to reach next summer's European Championships but following Friday's 2-1 friendly win in Cyprus, the Scotland boss claimed his first choice midfield is the best the national side has had for 20 years.

Manchester United boss Ferguson believes Scotland has improved under Levein and claims the likes of his Old Trafford midfielder and Scots' captain, Darren Fletcher, James Morrison and Steven Naismith, when he recovers from his cruciate ligament injury, can be the foundation for qualifying for Brazil in three years.

"I do see a resurgence under Craig," he told a number of newspapers.

"I think we've got a very good group of midfield players. That is the strength.

"At the moment you'd think if they can get a couple of players in important positions they could be decent but in the midfield they are very good.

"There is a collection of them; James McArthur, Graham Dorrans, Darren Fletcher and James Morrison, so there is quite a few players there. Steven Naismith, who does a fantastic job.

"So that is their strength and they are doing really well. I thought they played good football on Friday night.

"If they are going to qualify for the World Cup that is going to be their strength."