Aaron Hickey hopes his knowledge of Brentford teammate Igor Thiago can give Scotland an advantage when they face Brazil in their final World Cup Group C fixture.
Scotland are currently preparing in Charlotte, North Carolina, ahead of their opening World Cup match against Haiti at Foxborough Stadium in Boston on Saturday.
Steve Clarke’s side will then face Morocco on June 19 before finishing the group stage with a high-profile clash against Brazil in Miami on June 24.
Speaking from Charlotte FC’s training base, Hickey revealed he and Thiago have already been discussing the possibility of facing each other on football’s biggest stage.
The former Hearts and Celtic defender, who celebrated his 24th birthday this week, believes his experience playing alongside the Brazilian forward could help Scotland’s defenders prepare for the challenge.
“It’s been funny, we’ve been talking every day about that game so we’re both really looking forward to it,” said Hickey.
“He’s a big boy, holds it up well. I’ve only played with him one season.
“He’s a good player but hopefully I can give a few tips to the centre-backs.”
Scotland are aiming to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time in their history after qualifying for the tournament for the first time since 1998.
The showdown with Brazil could prove crucial, and Hickey’s inside knowledge of one of their attacking threats may become a valuable weapon for Clarke’s squad.
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