The France striker was impressed by the Scots when they beat his home nation twice during qualifying for this summer's European Championships before narrowly missing out.

Henry, speaking ahead of playing in Barcelona's friendlies against Hibernian and Dundee United, said: "Scotland have nothing to fear in the World Cup.

"France lost home and away to them in the Euro qualifiers but still managed to qualify.

"But if Scotland had not lost in Georgia, it would have made it difficult for us to get to the finals.

"So they ought to be excited about their qualification prospects as there is no reason to be scared. They have proven they can beat the best teams in the world.

"Even at club level Scottish teams are performing well. Rangers reached the UEFA Cup final and were unlucky not to win the trophy. They just came up against a very good team in Zenit St Petersburg.

"Barcelona knocked Celtic out of the Champions League but only after two hard games.

"That is another sign that Scottish football is definitely on the up."