Features

New Scotland era dawns

Author: Lynda Collins
Date: 03/03/2010
Football betting

All eyes will be on new manager Craig Levein's first team-sheet on Wednesday evening when Scotland entertain Czech Republic at Hampden Park.

Levein was handed the reins of the national team in December and has promised a new dawn following the disappointments of predecessor George Burley's reign.

Scotland won just three of 14 games under Burley and the former Ipswich Town and Hearts manager was sacked following a 3-0 defeat to Wales on their last international outing in November.

In that respect, Levein really can't lose as the shambolic performance in Cardiff was viewed by many pundits as being the nadir.

The only way is up for the ex-Dundee United boss, who is regarded as one the brightest managerial talents in Scotland following his revival of the Terrors in recent seasons.

Can Craig Levein begin his reign with a win against Czech Republic? - Latest Football Betting

Levein certainly appears to be unafraid of ruffling feathers after making major headlines with his first squad announcement.

Kris Boyd and Lee McCulloch were both been recalled to the fold despite being criticised for turning their back on Scotland under the previous managerial regime.

The Rangers forwards were viewed as key by Levein to his plans after a lack of goals ultimately cost Burley his job, but it remains to be seen how Boyd and McCulloch are greeted by the patriotic Hampden fans on their return.

Gers goalkeeper Allan McGregor - who has not played since the Boozegate affair last year which resulted in a now overturned lifetime ban - would also have made the squad but for injury.

"They're not stupid. They know there will be an element of our support who don't think they should be there," explained Levein. "My job is to pick the team that has the best chance of getting us to the (European Championship) finals.

"We need to build some momentum and get everybody onside, so it's my decision to say to these guys, 'Let's everybody come back and try to work together and qualify for the Euros'."

Levein decided against a recall for Barry Ferguson - who was also involved in the late-night drinking session before a game against Iceland last April - despite holding 'positive' talks with the Birmingham City midfielder about a potential international return.

Elsewhere, the inclusion of two uncapped players who worked under him at Dundee United has also raised eyebrows.

Terrors left-back Paul Dixon and centre-half Garry Kenneth have been preferred to the likes of Celtic's Stephen McManus and Graham Alexander of Burnley in a surprise move which will either prove brave or foolish in the fullness of time.

Bristol City midfielder Paul Hartley has been recalled along with his team-mate Chris Iwelumo, while Cardiff City striker Ross McCormack is a high-profile casualty.

It all points to an interesting few months for the Tartan Army, who will be hoping for a feast of football following the recent famine they've been forced to endure.

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