Scotland’s men’s and women’s squads have received words of encouragement from the most successful Scottish football manager in history ahead of the Homeless World Cup in Oslo.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who is Ambassador for Street Soccer Scotland, met the squads as they made their final preparations before flying out to take part in the competition which has attracted over 50 nations from across the globe.

The competition, which started yesterday, is being held in Oslo’s iconic Rådhusplassen.

Sir Alex Ferguson said: “All of the players selected for Scotland’s Homeless World Cup teams should be very proud. It is a tremendous personal achievement to be selected to play and every one of the players is also inspiring many more around them, including their fellow players who attend the Street Soccer Scotland programme throughout the year. Having met them I know they are determined to do their best for themselves and for Scotland.”

Davie Duke, founder and chief executive of Street Soccer Scotland, added: “Street Soccer Scotland works with thousands of socially disadvantaged adults and young people across Scotland throughout the year with the Homeless World Cup being a highlight. Representing Scotland makes every one of our players very proud has a very positive influence on the lives of every player. Getting a team talk from Sir Alex, one of the greatest football managers in history, has made the whole experience even better.”

Scotland’s men’s team will face Portugal, Egypt, Ukraine, Czech Republic and Greece in Stage 1 while the women’s team will play India, USA, Kenya, Burkina Faso and Northern Ireland.

The teams, which are managed, selected and coached by social enterprise Street Soccer Scotland, include players from across Scotland picked after a series of selection days throughout the year.

Support for the Scottish teams includes Burness Paull, Scotch Beef and Royal Bank of Scotland.

The squad has been selected following trials in Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen and Edinburgh.