McManus out of Holland clash
Stephen McManus could be fit to face Iceland
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Thursday, 26, Mar 2009 09:58
Scotland face a defensive crisis after Stephen McManus became the latest player to be ruled out of the World Cup qualifier against Holland.
The Celtic skipper has had to withdraw due to an ankle injury and joins fellow defenders David Weir and Kirk Broadfoot on the sidelines. It now means that one out of the inexperienced pair of Christophe Berra or Darren Barr will partner Gary Caldwell in defence.
Wolves defender Berra and Falkirk captain Barr have combined total of four caps, but Scotland coach Steven Pressley still has faith in the pair.
"Berra has progressed a great deal over the past year and he's a modern day centre back," said Pressley. "He's six-foot-three, he's very aggressive in the air, he's quick over the ground and a very good defender. He doesn't make very many mistakes and he's a lad who has progressed really well.
"Darren I've obviously played with for the last couple of months, and he's impressed me greatly. He's a great leader, again, he's a great athlete and they both have a great deal of similarities."
Paul Hartley and Kris Commons will also miss the Holland game. But there is better news on captain Barry Ferguson who has recovered from a chest injury. Scotland are also hopeful that McManus will be fit for the game against Iceland at Hampden Park next Wednesday.