Scotland skipper Fletcher gives Levein the thumbs up

Scotland coach Craig Levein has won the approval of captain Darren Fletcher over his response to their defeat by Sweden.

Last month's 3-0 friendly loss was a disappointing warm-up for Friday's Euro 2012 qualifier against Lithuania.

"He is a very experienced manager and definitely knows what he wants from his players," said Fletcher.

"He has made it clear that the performance in Sweden wasn't acceptable and that he expects certain standards."

And Fletcher believes that Levein's pep talk has ensured that Scotland will reach a higher standard of performance in Kaunas.

"They weren't reached in Sweden, so I think that maybe it was a timely reminder of getting back to basics and the manager stamping his authority on the team, which the players seemed to have responded to," said the Manchester United midfielder.

"This week, training has been very good, the tempo has been very good, the work rate has been very good and all you can ask for is that what you practice in training translates to games."

Lithuania join world champions Spain and Czech Republic in the section, so a good result in the first fixture is vital.

"We are in a difficult group," added Fletcher. "It is there for everyone to see.

"But we go into every qualifying campaign believing we can reach a level we can do and, with a little bit of luck, we can qualify.

"It starts off with a difficult game away in Lithuania and hopefully we can get a good result that sets up nicely for the start of the group.

"It has been a long while since Scotland reached a major competition, so the hunger should be there.

"If you can start off the campaign with a win, it is a definite confidence booster. There will be no negativity there.

"If you don't start the group in a positive manner, it doesn't mean it's over, but it definitely doesn't help confidence and things like that."