Boys sang to me on birthday....now my for another tune out of them

Koeman isn't in party mode for Scotland side who love to fight'

- SCOTT MCDERMOTT

NETHERLANDS manager Ronald Koeman celebrated his 61st birthday - but says the present he really wants is the Euro 2024 trophy.

The Dutch gaffer is gearing up for tonight's friendly against Scotland in Amsterdam and insists the encounter with Steve Clarke's side will be vital ahead of his team going to Germany this summer.

And with the Dutch one of the tournament favourites, he admits he'd love to win it.

Koeman said: "The players sang Happy Birthday to me and gave me a nice cap.

"They obviously think I'm at an age when I need to keep my head warm! But if I could have a perfect late present it would be the Euros on July 14.

"Scotland were in a qualifying group with Spain. They beat them and fought for first place right to the end. I know all about them and I know their mentality. They love to fight on the pitch.

"I don't like to talk about individual players but I was impressed with Scotland in the qualifiers.

"When they fight, they get the support of their fans, which is a powerful combination.