Burley backs McFadden and Miller for Scotland goals

GEORGE Burley today confirmed James McFadden and Kenny Miller will lead Scotland's attack in tomorrow's friendly against Northern Ireland.

Manager Burley has McFadden available for the first time since he took charge in January and is looking forward to seeing the Birmingham striker in action.

"The last couple of squads, I haven't be able to announce him," Burley said in a press conference.

"I'll be pleased to have a look at him in a Scotland shirt on Wednesday."

McFadden has often been deployed as a wide player during his international career and Burley added: "James has got ability and talent and he's versatile.

"Certainly, his attacking prowess is his strength.

"I'll be looking to partner him with Kenny Miller."

Tomorrow is Burley's final opportunity to see his players in international action before next month's World Cup qualifiers begin with a trip to Macedonia.

"The nucleus of the team that starts on Wednesday will hopefully start in Macedonia," Burley said.

"We've got three or four players who have had to cry off through injury.
"It's an important game to try to get them to gel."

Scotland will be missing injured skipper Barry Ferguson for their first two qualifiers but Burley is sure his fellow midfielders will take up the mantle.

He said: "We're fortunate at the moment. We've got a number of top-class midfield players.

"We've got players with similar talents to Barry.

"I've got selection problems in that position so I'll have no problem filling that role.

"Of course, we'll miss Barry. He's the captain, he's a big inspiration off the field."