Former England striker Ian Wright ripped into Scottish football on ITV, arguing that the game’s woes stem from a weak broadcast deal and stagnant infrastructure. He contrasted Scotland’s five‑million population with Norway’s similar size, noting both missed the World Cup between 1998 and 2024, yet Norway now boasts a squad headed for the 2026 knockout phase and a promising rivalry that could lift spirits.

Wright pointed to attendance figures to back his claim: Norwegian top‑flight games average 7,000 fans a week, while Scottish Premiership crowds sit around 16,000, inflated by Celtic and Rangers. A UEFA report last September placed Scotland ahead of any other European league per‑capita. Yet Norway secures a broadcast package £25m higher than Scotland’s current deal and better commercial partnerships overall.

The SPFL signed a £150m five‑year rights agreement in 2022, delivering roughly £30m per club annually with a target of £50m by 2029. Norway already exceeds £50m a season and projects over £60m from 2029. More revenue could fund academies, retain home‑grown talent and improve Scotland’s chances after a shaky group‑stage showing for the national side.