Scotland skipper Darren Fletcher has conceded that his side face a "difficult" prospect in qualifying for the World Cup in two years' time.

Gordon Strachan's men get their campaign up and running on Sunday evening when taking on Malta at the Ta'Qali Stadium, aiming to end their 20-year wait to reach a major tournament.

Fletcher, who was handed the captain's armband following Scott Brown's recent retirement from the international game, admits that the pressure is now on to start rewarding fans for their loyal support down the years.

"It's a difficult group but not impossible and we fancy our chances," he told reporters. "There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. I know the fans will be. We've got nearly 5,000 coming here and they always get behind the players.

"Their support is really appreciated because they have had a lot of disappointment over the years and to keep turning up in the numbers they do and keep that support for the players on the pitch is great.

"I've been in the squad a long time and never heard boos. It makes it extra special and we urge them to stick with us because they'll be vitally important if we do want to qualify."

Scotland are in Group F for World Cup 2018 qualifying, along with England, Slovakia, Slovenia, Lithuania and opening-game opponents Malta.