Eck fury at FIFA farce on call-offs
ALEX McLEISH has called on FIFA to end the farce that has decimated his squad with call-offs.
The Scotland boss has suffered six withdrawals for the tour to Peru and Mexico from a list that was already missing several big-name stars. Current rules don’t allow
From Back Page McLeish to force the issue with the teams and players he really needs but he wants respectful dialogue with our major clubs.
Peru and Mexico, on route to playing in the World Cup, can enforce the call-ups of the players they want to see perform.
And Big Eck said: “That’s where I would question FIFA. If every game is bona fide for sides going to the World Cup, why is it not the same for the warm-up acts where you can actually enforce a call-up?
“I want a relationship with the clubs. I spoke to Johnny Russell’s gaffer at Sporting Kansas City, for example, and he was absolutely tremendous.
“But the fact this FIFA rule doesn’t count for sides not going to the World Cup has to be looked at.”
McLeish has resisted the temptation to call for reinforcements but could make a move for Danny Wilson for the friendly against Mexico.
And he will train early today so the squad can watch Andy Robertson play in the Champions League Final.
Coach Peter Grant said: “We will be back from training for the Final. The boys will all be sitting watching Andy.”