Burley names friendly squad

Burley: Tough test

Scotland boss George Burley has named a 26-man squad ahead of an upcoming friendly with Argentina.

The build-up to the game has been overshadowed by the appointment of Diego Maradona as the new coach of the South American side, but the Scots will be determined to play their part in the contest.

Burley will also be desperate for his troops to put on a positive display against illustrious opponents after enduring a difficult start to life in international management.

The former Derby and Ipswich boss has recorded just one win from six fixtures to date, with Scotland scoring just four goals in those games.

Their 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign has also got off to a shaky start, with four points taken from three games so far.

Confidence

However, a showpiece occasion at Hampden Park against former world champions provides the ideal opportunity for the country to restore fragile confidence.

Scotland will also be boosted by the return of injured stars and the arrival of in-form front-men.

Tottenham full-back Alan Hutton is included for the first time under Burley's stewardship, while inspirational midfielder Barry Ferguson is also welcomed back into the fold.

Chris Iwelumo is handed another opportunity despite his horrendous miss against Norway last time out, and Cardiff's red-hot striker Ross McCormack will be hoping to transfer his club form into the international arena.

Full Scotland squad for the friendly with Argentina at Hampden Park on 19th November:

Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon (Sunderland), Allan McGregor (Rangers), David Marshall (Norwich City)

Defenders: Graham Alexander (Burnley), Darren Barr (Falkirk), Christophe Berra (Hearts), Kirk Broadfoot (Rangers), Gary Caldwell (Celtic), Alan Hutton (Tottenham), Jamie McAllister (Bristol City), Stephen McManus (Celtic), Gary Naysmith (Sheffield United)

Midfielders: Scott Brown (Celtic), Kris Commons (Derby County), Barry Ferguson (Rangers), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), Paul Hartley (Celtic), Shaun Maloney (Celtic), James Morrison (West Brom), Barry Robson (Celtic)

Forwards: David Clarkson (Motherwell), Steven Fletcher (Hibernian), Chris Iwelumo (Wolves), Ross McCormack (Cardiff City), James McFadden (Birmingham), Kenny Miller (Rangers).