Miller and McFadden still Scotland's best forward options, says George Burley

May 11 2008 By Mark Guidi

Kenny And Fad Still Scots' Best Way Forward - Burls

SCOTLAND boss George Burley has revealed he won't have any worries if his two main strikers are playing in the English Championship next season.

Kenny Miller's Derby County have been relegated and James McFadden's Birmingham are favourites to join them when the Premiership campaign ends today.

Miller has made it clear that he is desperate to leave County this summer but his international team-mate has vowed to stay at Brum even if they take the dreaded drop.

With crucial World Cup qualifiers kicking off in September, Burley would prefer all his stars to be playing regular football at the highest level.

However, he is sure the likes of Miller and McFadden have the quality to cope if they are stuck down a division.

Burley (right) said: "I watched Birmingham last weekend and they have a number of top class players.

"I know what you are saying about Miller and McFadden and where they might be playing but it is more about the quality of the individual - not the club they are at.

"Both are superb international talents and I've no fears about where they will be playing next season.

"James has been in good form and although Kenny has had a difficult time he has still displayed his qualities.

"In an ideal world you'd want every player performing to his best in the highest league possible and in Europe every week.

"But I know the standard of the English Championship and it is tough. You must be strong with a tremendous amount of determination.

"Regardless of which leagues my players are involved in I will pick guys I feel can help get a positive result for Scotland. I will weigh it all up."

Burley's next game will be a friendly on May 30 against the Czech Republic in Prague. Norwich keeper David Marshall is likely to get his third cap and Craig Gordon will also play. There is no place for Rangers goalie Neil Alexander while club-mate Allan McGregor is also ruled out because of injury.

Burley has plenty of options between the posts and believes he is better off than when Jim Leighton and Andy Goram were fighting for the No.1 jersey more than a decade ago.

The manager said: "We have some superb keepers available and I don't believe the country has ever been so well off for that position.

"I've gone for just two keepers because it's the fairest way. We're only allowed to use six subs and you don't want too many guys travelling when chances of getting a game are limited."

One man likely to make his debut is West Brom midfielder James Morrison.

The 21-year-old is tipped to have a big future and Burley said: "I spoke to his boss Tony Mowbray and the feedback about James was excellent.

"The boy is comfortable with both feet, has pace and intelligence and is excellent on the ball."