Russell happy to accept decision

SCOTLAND: Striker disappointed to miss out, but understands circumstances

Former Dundee United star Johnny Russell admits quarantine disruption effectively made it impossible for him to join up with the Scotland squad.

The Sporting Kansas City forward was omitted by national team boss Steve Clarke for the upcoming Uefa Nations League clashes with Israel and the Czech Republic. But the former Tangerines and Derby County player admits the decision was made to leave him out following a discussion with the Scotland coaching staff.

The 30-year-old admits he was also not keen to miss out on club matches for the MLS outfit, with Kansas City continuing to play during the international break.

Russell said: “I spoke to the Scotland guys a few days before the squad was announced.

“Just with everything that has gone on, the travel ban and quarantine rules, they decided to leave me out.

“I wanted to come back and I want to be involved in squads but I can understand why they made that decision.”

“From a club point of view as well, we’re playing catch-up with our season,” added Russell.

“We’re playing every three or four days so I think I’d miss seven or eight games in that time period – so I think for everyone it was the best-case scenario.”

However, Russell, who has scored two goals in 10 appearances for Sporting this season, is desperate to be involved in next month’s crucial Euro 2021 semi-final play-off against Israel.

He added: “I’ve spoken countless times about how much it means to me to play for Scotland but we’re in difficult times so sometimes things have to change.

“I’m disappointed not to be there but I just need to be a fan for these games and hopefully get myself back in for the next one.”

Picture: SNS. Johnny Russell plays for Sporting Kansas City in the MLS.