But he thinks Scotland may still be able to take advantage of frailties within the Dutch defence in Saturday's World Cup qualifier.

The FC Twente boss told Scotland Today: "The Dutch are very enthusiastic about their football; it's a footballing nation, and they like their national team to really do well.

"I think the Dutch team, with the players and the talent they have, are capable of winning a tournament and are capable of beating anybody on their day in the world.

"The first thing you have to do against a Dutch team is to stop them playing.

"You have to be organised, disciplined and very compact as a team - and if you do that, you will frustrate them.

"Then you have to take your opportunities on the break, because that's where they have an Achilles heel."

McClaren is well aware of the pressures faced by an international boss - and believes a point would be a positive outcome for George Burley this weekend.

He said: "They start with a draw, and I suppose they will be very happy to go away with a draw.

"It will be very difficult for the Scots, but I wish George all the best and every success in the future with Scotland."