Scotland boss George Burley was left to rue his side’s luck after their 4-0 thrashing in Norway – but still insists World Cup qualification is realistic.

Two goals from Morten Gamst Pedersen and a goal apiece from former Liverpool left back John Arne Riise and Erik Huseklepp capped a night of misery for the Scots who had Gary Caldwell red-carded.

The defeat means Burley’s men remain level with Macedonia on seven points but drop from second to third.

With the eight best runners-up from the nine qualification groups progressing to the play-offs Burley’s men almost certainly need to win their remaining two games, against Macedonia and Netherlands at Hampden Park.

But the former Ipswich boss is adamant the dream is still alive.

"We lost, but we still have two games left. If we win those, I still feel we can be in the play-offs,” said Burley.

“So nothing has changed. We have two games left and they are both at home, so we have to pick ourselves up and show the character necessary to get into second place and the play-offs.

“I have no doubts that we can beat Macedonia at home. Holland was always going to be difficult but they have qualified so I believe we have the players who can win both games.

"It has been a disastrous result, to lose by four when we were looking to cement our position in second place but we will be in there fighting.”