Scotland: George Burley's Winners and Losers

WINNERS

Gary Caldwell

Decried by Celtic fans but solid for Scotland. Spectacularly effective clearance to deny Croatia a second goal and his club partnership with Stephen McManus could be the one Burley turns to if David Weir stops playing an admirable version of Peter Pan.

Terry Butcher

Resisted the temptation to integrate himself with his adopted country by singing Flower Of Scotland. His experience of three World Cups with England could be invaluable in helping Scotland reach South Africa.

Kenny Miller

The white Samuel Eto'o? Well, not quite, but Miller does lead the line reasonably effectively on his own. His finishing remains erratic but his scoring rate for Scotland—11 goals in 36 games—is good.

LOSERS

The SPL

Is their fixtures computer a ZX81? How come Old Firm games always seem to collide with international dates? About time they acted in international interest.

Allan McGregor

The goalie with the wandering hands couldn't make a date with his country because of "a bit of puffiness around the knee" according to Rangers' website. The poor wee lamb has managed to play every single Premier League fixture, though.

The SFA

Fans missing kick-off when the stadium is half full because of a ticket collection farce is not on. How many of these same, loyal supporters lost out to sponsors and their clients when the prestige match against Italy was played?