They have started their invasion of the United States in a jubilant mood, proudly donning their kilts and Scotland tops.

And ahead of jetting out across the Atlantic himself, John Swinney hailed Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup as a ‘profound moment of national joy’.

The First Minister will attend the Scotland-Haiti match in Boston at 2am UK time on Sunday and will also hold a series of engagements with business leaders and investors.

In his message ahead of flying out on Thursday night, Mr Swinney said: ‘To our men’s national team, I know I speak for everyone when I say Scotland could not be prouder and the country is right behind you. This is a profound moment of national joy.’

Sport Minister Maree Todd is also attending the World Cup in an official capacity for the Scotland-Brazil match on June 24, while Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn and Community Care Minister Alison Thewliss have been granted leave to attend matches in a personal capacity.

Meanwhile, Reform UK’s Scottish leader Malcolm Offord has refused to say whether he still intends to attend the World Cup despite being elected to Holyrood. 

He previously said he would be going to the Scotland-Brazil match, which is during the final week of parliament before it breaks up for the summer recess.

Mr Swinney’s comments came as masses of the Tartan Army started to arrive in the States.

Proud Scotland fans were in a buoyant mood as they familiarised themselves with the surroundings in and around Boston.

Even pundit Gary Neville, former Manchester United captain and England international and now part of the ITV World Cup line-up, could not resist a selfie with Scotland fans as he shared a flight with the ‘Old Enemy’.

Meanwhile, closer to home, Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander has promised to intervene in the case of Kenny Smith, whose ESTA visa authorisation was revoked by American authorities without explanation.

The 45-year-old has forked out in excess of £10,000 for the trip, only to face the disappointment of being banned from entry.

He enlisted the help of his MP Jamie Stone, who requested urgent action in Westminster.

Mr Smith has previously travelled to the States without incident and has no criminal record. Despite complying in full with the requirements set out, administrative delays now risk preventing him from travelling in time.

Mr Stone, the Lib Dem MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, said: ‘I have urged the Government to act swiftly and ensure every possible step is taken to resolve Mr Smith’s case and have been reassured that the Secretary of State will escalate the matter.’