Scotland manager Steve Clarke has explained why Rangers-bound Hearts centre-back John Souttar has been excluded from his latest national team squad.
Clarke unveiled his squad earlier in the week with the big Rangers news concerning the return of Ryan Jack as he steps up his return from a lengthy injury lay-off.
But the news that John Souttar – who has been amongst Hearts’ star players this season – wasn’t included also made ripples in Rangers circles.
Speaking to the press as the squad was announced ahead of friendlies with Poland and the loser of Wales’ World Cup Playoff with Austria, Steve Clarke explained this was because of injury.
Thankfully, given John Souttar has a long-history of injury issues, the ankle knock is not expected to keep the 26-year-old out for an extended period.
John Souttar ruled out of Scotland squad through injury
“John Souttar who played and scored against Denmark, has picked up an ankle injury,” said Scotland boss Clarke [Scotsman].
“Thankfully it’s not serious and he should be back in a couple of weeks.”
This news will be welcomed by Rangers as the club look forward to welcoming John Souttar to Ibrox next season.
Things might’ve been different in the January transfer window however if the Gers had succeeded in a late bid to bring the Scotland international to Ibrox.
Reports suggested Rangers offered Hearts anything up to £400k to bring John Souttar to Glasgow months early but the Jambos would not budge on a pre-established asking price.
Rangers opted not to move – something which was initially met with criticism amid a spell of poor defensive form – but the player will move to Ibrox for nothing at the end of his contract.
Hearts too may well feel vindicated in their decision after the news that the Gorgie club are 90 minutes away from securing a £3m jackpot for next season.
