SAINTS midfielder Stuart Armstrong believes his country will take motivation from their World Cup playoff defeat to Ukraine when Scotland face the Ukrainians in the Nations League.

The Scots’ World Cup hopes were dashed when they fell to a 3-1 defeat at Hampden to Ukraine, who in turn lost to Wales in the final of the playoffs, meaning both countries will not be in Qatar this winter.

After missing out on playing at the biggest stage, Scotland and Ukraine’s focus turns to the Nations League, with both sides looking for promotion from their group.

The two countries renew relations this evening, when Scotland host Ukraine for a second time in the span of three months (kick-off 7.45pm).

Armstrong shared: “I think there’s definitely a level of hurt there from last time.

“We knew what was at stake during that game.

“Obviously we’re disappointed following that so I think there will be a memory of that feeling going into this game. But also we want to win every game.

"We’ve got a lot to play for. The ultimate ambition is to win.”

Victory for Scotland would see Ukraine knocked off their perch at top of the group, putting the Scots in poll position in the promotion battle.

“That’s motivation enough,” Armstrong added.

“We know they’re a difficult opponent, we found that out last time.

“But equally, we know our own capabilities and the results we’ve had in the past show we’re also a very good team.”

“We can definitely take confidence from our previous performances over the last couple of campaigns.

“We know we can finish strongly and also be consistent in our performances.

“At times in the past I think consistency has been an issue for Scotland but I think we have shown we can demonstrate that so there’s definitely a belief that we can find our form again and be more consistent.”

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