Ferguson will not play for Scotland again

Barry Ferguson will not play for Scotland again, national team coach Craig Levein has confirmed.

The Birmingham midfielder, 32, was banished from the national team during George Burley's tenure for his role in the infamous "Boozegate" affair.

Levein had hoped the former Rangers skipper would return under the new regime after he replaced Burley at the helm.

But Ferguson has informed the Scotland boss he wants to focus on club football instead.

Levein had hoped Ferguson would be back in the squad for the forthcoming Euro 2010 qualifiers.

He held talks with Ferguson last night, where he was informed of the player's intention to retire from international football.

Levein said: "I am naturally disappointed not to call on Barry's abilities and experience for the Euro 2012 qualification campaign, but I understand his reasons.

"The arrangement was that Barry would have the summer to decide.

"Birmingham returned to pre-season training yesterday and when we spoke last night, he said that both family commitments and his commitment to Birmingham City were the priorities in his life at the moment.

"I wish him the best of luck and we now move on with our preparations for the qualification campaign, starting with the friendly against Sweden next month."