Soren Gran believes Scotland's representation at the European Curling Championships which start in Switzerland today highlights a risky strategy within the sport's set-up, writes Kevin Ferrie.

The head coach of the Great Britain programme has spent time working with the rink led by Dave Edwards which claimed a surprise victory at the domestic competition to decide who would represent Scotland, and commended the Aberdeen-based curler on both his success and his professionalism.

However, the fact that what is essentially an amateur rink has the responsibility of earning Scotland qualification for this season's World Championships is a source of worry for Gran.

He said: "Dave showed he was the best team that weekend. He and I have different views on how curling should move forward, but we have worked together and he showed a very, very good attitude to what's going to be in front of him as well. I'm still a coach and I'm going to work to get the best out of that team and that's my job."

Gran is aware that his views on the need to make the sport more professional are at odds with many traditionalists. However, he noted that there is little point in having full-time curlers and then operating a set-up in which amateurs can still represent Scotland on the international stage.

"Of course we are taking a risk every time that we don't send the teams who are prepared in the best way and I think the people who put in the most time are best prepared to play for Scotland," said Gran. "As long as I'm involved in the programme I believe it gives us the best chance to qualify for the worlds and the Olympics."