Source: Team_Talk
Ferguson open to Scotland return
arry Ferguson looks set to return to international football after Craig Levein reiterated his desire to have him back in his Scotland squad.[LNB] The Birmingham midfielder, 32, has not played for Scotland since his part in the 'Boozegate' scandal 18 months ago and knocked back an offer from Levein to return ahead of the recent Euro 2012 qualifying double-header against Lithuania and Liechtenstein.[LNB]Ferguson claimed he wanted to concentrate on his club career and spend time with his family but last night his position appeared to change when he told BBC Sportsound: "You can never say never in football.[LNB]"Craig came down to see me in the summer and we had a great chat. He's a guy I have a lot of respect for.[LNB]"He wanted an answer before the Sweden game and my answer was no. Craig knows I will speak to him. His words were: 'The door will never be shut'.[LNB]"It never leaves you and you always want to represent your country.[LNB]"Watching the games, you want to be out there helping Scotland get to a major European finals. It does hurt not being part of it."[LNB]The Scotland boss has kept the door open for the former Rangers midfielder to return for next month's Euro 2012 qualifying double-header against the Czech Republic and Spain.[LNB]In a statement, Levein said: "The situation has been ongoing and I have been upfront in saying I would like him to be part of the set-up.[LNB]"If there is any update to the situation then we will keep everyone informed."[LNB]Ferguson's return to Scotland would be unlikely to go down well with club boss Alex McLeish.[LNB]When his 45-times capped midfielder turned down Levein in July, the former Scotland manager said: "It's good news for me and Birmingham because of the physical demands of the Premier League on a player.[LNB]"At Barry's age, there are a lot of demands on his body and he has to consider it very carefully. If he comes back from internationals, he may have to be rested."[LNB]After making his decision to retire from international football, Ferguson signed a one-year extension to his contract which keeps him at Birmingham until 2012 and has started the season in fine form.[LNB]Levein could simply name the former Rangers player in his next squad but it is understood he will wait on a call from Ferguson confirming his desire to be part of the Scotland set-up again.
