Chris Iwelumo won't let horror miss haunt him, says Scotland boss George Burley

Nov 16 2008 By Mark Guidi

GEORGE BURLEY is adamant Chris Iwelumo has the character and ability to put THAT miss against Norway behind him and help Scotland reach the 2010 World Cup finals.

The Wolves striker missed a sitter as Burley's side drew 0-0 at home to leave them with four points from their opening three qualifiers.

But Burley has so much faith in Iwelumo he likened him to born-again England striker Emile Heskey who was in the international wilderness but is now a major part of Fabio Capello's plans.

Scotland boss Burley will play Iwelumo against Argentina on Wednesday night and said: "I've had a word with Chris - he's fine.

"That miss was a one in a million thing. It was a bad error but I'msure he'd score 99 times out of 100 again.

"At least he never dropped his head and he played well.

"Chris is in the squad. He's a good target man and gives us a physical presence we might need against Argentina.

"He's up there with the job Heskey does for England. He helps break down defences and that is invaluable."

Burley plans to play a positive formation but accepts his side could cop a hiding. He said: "We will try to have a go and put Argentina under pressure.

"But they may well play magnificently and beat us easily. They have Tevez and Aguero and our keeper may be well worked."

Barry Ferguson will skipper the side in his first game under Burley.

The gaffer said: "Barry is not 100 per cent fit but all the lads are desperate to play.

"I just want a good performance to give us confidence for our next World Cup game in Holland on March 28."

Burley has also brought in sports scientist Brian Ewing and said: "This is Brian's first time with the full squad but I hope tomakeit permanent."