Craig Levein admits he would love to see as many Scottish players as possible plying their trade in the Barclays Premier League.
But the Scotland manager insists he has no intention of telling Kris Boyd to quit Rangers for a move to England's top-flight. Boyd's Ibrox deal is set to expire and he has been linked with a number of Premiership clubs, while former Rangers striker Shota Arveladze wants to take him to Turkish side Kayserispor.
But Levein insists only the striker - who has returned to the national team after ending his self-imposed exile - can make that decision. "I'm not telling Kris Boyd what to do or what not to do," said the Scotland boss.
"He's had another good season and it's up to him to decide where he plays. If he's still at Rangers next year, he's playing at a fantastically high level.
"If he goes down to the Premier League, then, arguably, he's moving up a level. If he goes abroad, in recent history, some Scottish lads who have gone abroad have improved by doing so.
"It's not my place to say who should go where or who should stay. The more Scotland players who are testing themselves every week at the highest level, then the better it's going to be.
"It's purely selfish. I'm not a club manager now. I'd love to see all our guys playing at the top level in the Premier League but I don't think that's going to happen."
Levein is taking a similar stance on Liverpool's interest in Rangers defender Danny Wilson but has expressed concerns if the 18-year-old sacrifices first team football for a major move.
"Again, I'm stepping outside my domain," said Levein.
"That's for the lad and Rangers and whoever is after him to decide. What I do believe is players, when they get to 18,19,20, they need to play."
Source: PA
