Newcastle United winger Ryan Fraser has pulled out of the Scotland squad, ahead of the nation’s final game this international break.
Steve Clarke’s side are facing Austria tomorrow night in their next World Cup qualifying match.
The Tartan Army currently sit third in their group.
They were outclassed by Denmark last week, but returned to winning ways against Moldova on Saturday.
A second-place finish is the best hope for Scotland. They are currently two points behind Israel, with Austria a point behind Scotland.
Fraser will play no part against Franco Foda’s team. He is one of three players to be leaving the squad, the others being Nathan Patterson and Kenny McLean.
No specific reasons have yet been provided as to why they’re leaving.
Clarke will address the media this afternoon where he will no doubt explain.
That said, The Daily Record are reporting it to be a ‘triple injury blow’.
It will mean Fraser will not get a chance to add to his 21 caps for his country.
Injury concern
Fraser leaving the Scotland camp is a little concerning.
Fraser, 27, may not be a natural fit into Bruce’s system, but he would be a loss for Newcastle.
He was deployed centrally against Burnley and played the role in pre-season.
The Magpies have had a tough start and have some tricky games coming up. Fraser being unavailable just wouldn’t be ideal.
Fingers crossed it is nothing serious.
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