Jubilant Scotland fans make the journey home after the longest day

It had been a long night for Calum Johnson. Arriving back at Glasgow’s Central station just after midday on Saturday, the 26-year-old had been awake for almost 24 hours, since leaving the same station a day earlier to head for Wembley stadium.

“It was all worth it,” he said, of his trip to witness Scotland’s much-anticipated Euros meeting with England, an age-old rivalry that resulted in a goal-less draw. “The atmosphere, the result, that squad … and it was just great to be back in a crowd after all this time.”

Travelling with Johnson were friends Jack and Ollie, who didn’t manage to get tickets to the match but still wanted to make the journey to soak up the atmosphere.

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“There were so many Scotland fans everywhere, it was like being in Glasgow city centre,” said Ollie. Did London’s rainy weather get in the way of the fun? “That was even more like Glasgow,” he pointed out.

Also returning home following a whirlwind few days was eight-year-old Thomas, still giddy with the adrenaline of having seen his hero, Scotland captain Andy Robertson, in the flesh. “It was my first time in London and my first time seeing Scotland,” he said. “But I’m excited to see them again soon.” As for his team’s chances in the tournament, Thomas remained cool-headed. Does he think they can win? “I think maybe,” he said after a pause.

His father, John Cairney, was less energetic, following a late night celebrating and a 7am start for the five-hour train journey home. “I’m away off to my bed,” he said. But, nodding towards Thomas, he added: “He’ll be awake for days buzzing off this.”