SOCCER: Scotland manager George Burley has revealed Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor will face The Netherlands instead of Sunderland's Craig Gordon in Saturday's crucial World Cup qualifier.

Burley had previously refused to be drawn on his last line of defence for the clash in Amsterdam with both McGregor and Gordon pushing for a starting slot.

However a lack of first-team action at Sunderland has cost Gordon - Scotland's usual number one - his place against the Dutch.

Burley said: "There has been a lot of talk, a lot of speculation, people talking about the pros and cons of who to play.

"I had a chat with both goalkeepers yesterday and both were pushing for the number one spot.

"Allan McGregor will play because Craig has not been playing first-team football.

"Craig is a magnificent goalkeeper but Allan did well against Argentina and he has been playing well for Rangers. Allan is excited at the prospect.

"It was important to make this decision now and not later. Allan deserves a chance and he will start in Holland."

Burley also confirmed that Alan Hutton will not face The Netherlands but will be considered for next Wednesday's visit of Iceland.

The Tottenham full-back has been out of senior action since November with an injured foot but had been hopeful of taking part this weekend.

He came through a reserve match unscathed earlier in the week but Burley is taking no risks.

He said: "Alan played 72 minutes at West Brom on Monday and did very well. He had no problems and looked lively and bright.

"But I spoke to him yesterday and I am not planning to play him in Holland although he will be considered for the Iceland game."

Paul Hartley has become the latest player to pull out of the squad, with a hamstring injury, but his Celtic team-mate Stephen McManus has not yet been ruled out despite struggling with an ankle injury.

Burley said: "Stephen is desperate to play. He is progressing a lot quicker than anyone thought he would but if he is not 100 per cent right we won't play him."