STEPHEN McManus today tipped Scotland to cause an upset against World Cup winners Italy - just like Celtic did when they played AC Milan.

Hoops centre-half McManus made his first ever start for his country in the nail-biting 2-1 triumph over Georgia at Hampden on Saturday.

And now Mick is desperate to take to the field in the national team's clash against the Azzurri on Wednesday night.

For the 24-year-old is confident Alex McLeish's men can hold their own against Roberto Donadoni's team and stay on top of Group B.

McManus was a member of the Celtic team that pushed Serie A giants Milan to extra-time in the last 16 of the Champions League this season.

He said: "You never know what will happen in football. Nobody gave Celtic a chance against AC Milan this season and look what happened.

"We have a great bunch of lads in the international set-up. These guys are playing at a high level for their clubs week in, week out and have nothing to fear at international level.

"We've got a great team spirit in the camp. We would run through a brick wall for each other. And what will be important in Italy is that we stick together."

McManus's place in the Scotland team to face Italy on Wednesday night is under threat from Celtic team-mate Steven Pressley.

Elvis was suspended for the showdown with Georgia after being ordered off in the 2-0 defeat to Ukraine in Scotland's last Euro 2008 qualifier.

However, the veteran defender is available against for the game in the Stadio San Nicola and Big Eck faces a tough call.

McManus, who kept the likes of Rino Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo and Filippo Inzaghi at bay for over 180 minutes in Europe this season, is certainly confident he can handle the occasion.

He said: "I have been a part of Scotland squads in the past, but I think you only really feel part of things when you actually play in a game.

"I did that on Saturday and now feel I can cope at international level. The Georgia game was really great. The atmosphere was incredible.

"I would like to think I am in contention to play against Italy. I want to play as many times as I can for my country. Of course, it is down to the manager."

McManus, who made his debut for his country when he came on against Ukraine in October, has paid tribute to Old Firm rival Davie Weir for helping him settle in.

Apart from Shota Arveladze's headed equaliser just before half-time, the pair looked comfortable together in the heart of the Scotland defence.

Mick said: "Davie is a really good lad who has helped me a lot in the past week. He has got over 50 caps, has played in the English Premiership and since he has come up to Scotland to play for Rangers he has been on fire.

"He helped me a lot before and during the Georgia game and I would love to play alongside him again against Italy on Wednesday night."

Weir returned the compliment and said: "We are disappointed with the goal but other than that I thought we did well.

"Stephen McManus was outstanding, I thought he did really well for a second cap. The full-backs were really good as well.

The veteran admits a productive defensive display would satisfy him in Bari. "You always try and win games, that's what we're here for, but I can't deny a draw wouldn't be too bad."