Rangers Duo Axed from Scotland’s Crucial Group Nine Clash

April 1, 2009

Scotland captain Barry Ferguson has been sensationally axed from tonight’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Iceland after breaching discipline.

Reports suggest that Ferguson, 31, and his Rangers team mate Allan McGregor went for a late night drinking session after the squad returned to Loch Lomond following Saturday’s disappointing 3-0 defeat by Holland.

It is alleged that the pair were still drinking well into the morning after other members of the squad had drifted off to bed.

An SFA spokesperson said: “We can confirm that there has been a breach of team discipline. This has been dealt with within the squad. The focus of today is victory this evening and we will be going all out for three points.”

The news will signal the return of out of favour Sunderland keeper Craig Gordon while James Morrison and Darren Barr are options in midfield.

However, the loss of Ferguson and McGregor will be a bitter blow for under fire manager George Burley ahead of tonight’s do or die clash with Iceland.

Scotland have only taken four points in as many games and only a victory will be enough to appease the growing discontent within sections of the media.

But at a press conference yesterday Burley insisted that he will not be fazed by the criticisms and that he is strong enough to make the big decisions.

“There are a lot of big decisions to be made. I will speak to my staff but it’s one where I need to back my own judgment.

“I won’t worry about other factors, simply what I feel will be the best team to win.”

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