Levein ready for new chapter

Posted Tuesday, March 02, 2010 by PA

Scotland manager Craig Levein has reminded the Tartan Army he is the one who picks the team - whether they approve of his players or not.

Levein knows the return of Kris Boyd is likely to provoke a mixed reaction from supporters, with the striker set to end his self-imposed exile from international football in Wednesday's friendly against Czech Republic.

However, Levein has opened the door for the Rangers striker to make a dramatic return, and said: "I've tried to make it plain to everybody that I see it as a new chapter. I believe there will be people who resent the fact that I have picked some players who didn't want to play under George. But that's my decision."

He added: "The players then have a decision to make themselves. If they decide they want to play for Scotland, which they all have done, then I feel they have thought through that decision and are prepared for whatever comes their way.

"I would ask everybody who is watching the game to have one thing in mind - these guys are playing for their country.

"Kris has had a really good season. He had a period where he was out injured with the double hernia and he is gradually finding his way back to full fitness.

"Certainly, before he got injured, he was in really good form. He is part of the squad, he wants to be here and that's really important."