Source: Team_Talk
Boyd sets sights on Scotland return
Boyd has told Levein he will be gaining a far better player than the one who quit the national team 14 months ago, if the new Scotland boss chooses to resurrect his international career.[LNB]Levein has already stated he will not rule out any players when he ponders his squad for his first game in charge against the Czech Republic in March, paving the way for Boyd to make a dramatic return to the fold.[LNB]The Gers ace, 26, walked out on the George Burley regime within hours of the goalless draw against Norway after being left on the bench, with debutant Chris Iwelumo given the nod instead.[LNB]Boyd claims there was no bust-up between himself and Burley, that he simply felt his club career was suffering as a result of pointless trips with the national team.[LNB]And, back on top form at Rangers, the prolific hitman believes now is the right time to pull on the dark blue jersey of Scotland again.[LNB]He said: "I want to go back in, I want to be involved.[LNB]"It's up to the manager if he picks me but I'm ready to go back and I want to play for my country again.[LNB]"I'm looking forward to going back to Scotland and hopefully I can be involved and we can qualify for the next championships.[LNB]"We know it's going to be hard but hopefully I can go back a far better player and offer more than what I did before."[LNB]Boyd was thrilled to read comments from Levein saying he would consider Boyd for selection and the striker has told the new Scotland boss he can boost the squad he has inherited from Burley.[LNB]He added: "It's pleasing when you hear the national manager saying that and I felt the time was right for me to go back.[LNB]"I feel as though I have improved as a player and I look forward to hopefully showing that at international level.[LNB]"I didn't have a problem with George Burley but I just felt that something had to give.[LNB]"I wasn't playing at club level and international level wasn't helping me because I wasn't doing anything there either. I was away for 10 days at a time and it wasn't helping anybody.[LNB]"I've got myself established in the Rangers team and hopefully now I can go forward and help Scotland in the future."[LNB]Boyd has not discussed his international future with Levein and insists there is no reason to hold talks with the new national team boss.[LNB]"I've not spoken to him and I don't intend to speak to him," he said.[LNB]"He is the manager and he picks the players who he thinks are right for the job.[LNB]"If he thinks I'm right for the job, fine, I'll go and give it my all. That's what I look forward to doing in the future."[LNB]Boyd's sentiments were echoed by Ibrox team-mate Allan McGregor, who had been hit with a lifetime ban from representing his country in the wake of the 'Boozegate' affair.[LNB]The goalkeeper told the Daily Record: "If Craig Levein wants me to play a part in his plans then he won't have to ask me twice. The answer is yes please!"[LNB]McGregor was punished along with former Scotland and Rangers captain Barry Ferguson after the pair were caught flicking V-signs at photographers during April's World Cup qualifier against Iceland.[LNB]That came days after they embarked on an early-hours drinking session following a defeat in Holland.[LNB]McGregor added: "Nine months ago, I was absolutely devastated when I was told my Scotland career was over.[LNB]"Yes, I made some stupid mistakes and I apologise for them. But to be told I wouldn't play for my country again hit me harder than anyone can imagine.[LNB]"Obviously, things have changed now that the new manager is in charge and if he wants me - even just as a back-up to other keepers in the squad - he can count me in.[LNB]"I don't care if he wants to play me or not - I'm just desperate for the chance to get back in and maybe wear that jersey again one day."[LNB][LNB]
