Gordon Strachan has told Scotland stars of the past that the door is not closed on them making a return to the national fold.
Kris Boyd and Kevin Thomson have both returned to their homeland in a bid to kick-start their careers again, with Boyd back at Kilmarnock and Thomson training with former club Hibernian. James McFadden - a hero with the Tartan Army following his famous goal against France in 2007 - is also back in the country after re-signing for Motherwell.
The trio have all had a part to play for the national team in the past, and Strachan said: "I've known many players who have gone out of the squad for a year or two, came back, and become a regular in the team. It's been done before and I don't see any reason why it can't be done again."
He added: "What you must do with these lads, like Kris and Kevin Thomson and Faddy, is to allow them to continue the rehabilitation with their clubs and enjoy that first without the added pressure of playing for the national side.
"It's not easy to play for your national side. Sometimes you can bring people along who are feeling very good about themselves and they leave in a different frame of mind altogether."
Strachan named a 28-man squad for the World Cup qualifying double-header against Wales and Serbia on Thursday, with Rangers defender Lee Wallace failing to retain his place following last month's friendly against Estonia.
The Scotland boss said: "I said to the players recently that there would be players left out of the squad. I spoke to three players who I felt it was necessary to speak to about why they were left out of the squad. It's quite simple. At that time, that was the best player for that squad. At this time, I've picked another squad that's right at this time."
The meeting with Estonia took place at Pittodrie and Strachan is relishing the prospect of his managerial debut at Hampden when Wales come calling.
He said: "I made my debut as a player here against Wales. I'm looking forward to it as a manager, someone who has got to work with great players over the next week or so and somebody who has been a fan. I know the players and fans together will make it a smashing night."
Source: PA
