No Scotland return for Barry Ferguson

Former Scotland captain Barry Ferguson, who was thrown out of the national side in disgrace, will not play for his country again, manager Craig Levein said Tuesday.

Birmingham midfielder Ferguson, 32, and Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor were banned for life for their behaviour before and during a World Cup qualifier against Iceland in April last year.

The pair were dropped after an all-night drinking session and then made V signs at photographers from the bench.

After Levein took over from George Burley in December, he expressed hope of bringing Ferguson back into the national side.

But Levein said the former Rangers captain did not wish to be considered for selection.

“I am naturally disappointed not to call on Barry?s abilities and experience for the Euro 2012 qualification campaign, but I understand his reasons,” said Levein.

“The arrangement was that Barry would have the summer to decide. Birmingham returned to pre-season training yesterday and when we spoke last night, he said that both family commitments and his commitment to Birmingham City were the priorities in his life at the moment.

“I wish him the best of luck and we now move on with our preparations for the qualification campaign, starting with the friendly against Sweden next month.”

Scotland visit the Rasunda stadium in Stockholm on August 11.

Scotland have not qualified for the finals of a major tournament since the 1998 World Cup in France.