Scotland star Darren Fletcher believes the media storm surrounding Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor provided extra motivation to beat Iceland.
George Burley’s side triumphed 2-1 on Wednesday night after the Rangers pair were dropped to the bench after a breach in discipline on Sunday.
But despite the negative headlines, the Manchester United star said the stories actually brought the squad together.
“Things came out on the day of the game which wasn’t ideal preparation but we rallied around together and showed we’re a team and showed that unity,” Fletcher said.
“Everyone had the backing of the players, the manager, everyone, the matter was dealt with as soon as it happened and we had to go out on the pitch with the team the manager chose and get the win for Scotland and we did that.
“These situations happen all the time at club level and they get deal with and it’s unfortunate that it’s happened at international level.
“But the players apologised and there’s no problem, it was dealt with and the manager made his decision regarding the team and I’m sure Barry and Allan will be big players for Scotland in the future.
“Barry is the captain and a top player and he’ll play a massive part if we are to qualify.”
But when asked if he had witnessed any episodes like that with his club, the 25-year-old said he has not experienced anything similar.
“[I’ve not seen] that but incidents happen and you need to rally round, I’m not saying that happens but incidents happen and they get dealt with. But it’s unfortunate it gets out in the press because the matter was dealt with but got exaggerated or what not but, we just have to get on with it.”
The win moved Scotland back into second in Group Nine and the midfielder maintains they will go out to win every remaining game.
He explained: “We had to win if we had lost or draw it would have been an uphill task and probably impossible to qualify.
“Teams are still tight battling for second place behind Holland, and Norway are one of the competitors and it’s important that we don’t lose that match and we still have Holland to play after that.
“But we won’t be going there looking to hold on for a draw, we’ll be going for a win but the most important thing is we don’t lose. Then we’ve got two home games and anything can happen.”