Scotland duo given international bans
Barry Ferguson was captain of both Rangers and Scotland
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Friday, 03, Apr 2009 10:31
Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor have been given a lifetime ban from playing for Scotland.
The pair went on a late-night drinking session after last weekend's 3-0 loss to Holland, and were then caught making V-signs when they were on the bench against Iceland on Wednesday.
Rangers have also stripped Ferguson, 31, of the club captaincy and suspended the midfielder and goalkeeper McGregor for two weeks without pay.
Their pair's future at the Glasgow giants could now be in doubt. Defender David Weir has been named the new Rangers captain.
The Scottish Football Association said it decided to take further action against the duo after their gestures when they were dropped to the substitutes bench in the win over Iceland.
"In light of the events of the past 48 hours, and following further discussions between the national team manager and the chief executive, it has been decided that Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor will no longer be considered for international selection by Scotland," an SFA spokesman said.
"This action has been taken in the best interest of the squad, the fans and the country. We are determined to qualify for the World Cup and we must ensure that nothing is allowed to distract us from achieving this goal."
Ferguson, who has been capped 45 times, told Rangers' website: "I deeply regret what happened last weekend and the events during the last week and apologise wholeheartedly for the embarrassment caused to Scotland, Rangers, both sets of supporters and my friends and family.
"I have always considered playing for Rangers and Scotland an honour and a privilege and nothing will change that and I am bitterly disappointed by the announcement that I will not be selected for Scotland again."
McGregor, who won his fourth cap in Amsterdam, said he was disappointed with his behaviour.
"We all make mistakes in life and I am very disappointed to have let Rangers, Scotland, my family and all the fans down," the 27-year-old said.
"I am also desperately disappointed that I will not be selected again for Scotland at this stage in my career."