Scotland flew out to Georgia on Monday boosted by the news that Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher may have recovered enough from injury to start in their Euro 2008 [Images] Group B qualifier. The Scots remarkably top the group, which also includes France [Images] and Italy [Images], and victory in Tblisi and a point at home to Italy next month would see them through to the finals.
With several squad members out through injury or suspension, Scotland have been able to call on Fletcher, back in training after suffering a knee injury a month ago.
Assistant coach Andy Watson told the BBC Web site: "It's great he has been able to come in and be available for us after all the call-offs we have had."
Georgia, long out of contention, are also missing several key players through injury.
They include captain Kakha Kaladze and experienced midfielder Levan Kobiashvili, while goalkeeper Giorgi Lomaia was sent home after giving up a soft goal in last Saturday's 2-0 defeat by Italy.
AC Milan full back Kaladze and Kobiashvili, who plays for Bundesliga side Schalke 04, suffered thigh and groin injuries while playing for their clubs two weeks ago.
Teams (probable):
Georgia - Giorgi Makaridze; Lasha Salukvadze, Zurab Khizanishvili, Malkhaz Asatiani, Georgi Shashiashvili, Levan Tskitishvili, Zurab Menteshashvili, Jaba Kankava, David Kvirkvelia, Levan Kenia, Georgi Demetradze.
Scotland - Craig Gordon; Graeme Murty, David Weir, Stephen McManus, Gary Naysmith; Darren Fletcher, Barry Ferguson, Stephen Pearson, Gary Teale; James McFadden, Kenny Miller.
© Copyright 2007 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
|
Advertisement
Email this Article 
Print this Article