Ferguson surprised by Scotland talk

The Birmingham midfielder has not played for his country since the 'Boozegate' incident earlier this year after which he was told he would no longer be considered for selection. Ferguson has since made it clear he was unhappy with how the fallout was handled by the Scottish Football Association.

But after SFA chief executive Gordon Smith said on Wednesday whoever takes over from sacked manager George Burley would be free to pick Ferguson, the 31-year-old did not rule out a return. "To be honest the situation that arose on Wednesday from the comments made by the chief executive have taken me by surprise," he told The Herald.

"Firstly, I would like to clarify that I have never once said I would never play for my country again, as some people seem to have claimed.

"I made my feelings known in August about the way the whole situation was handled - and at the time admitted my deep regret for what had happened.

"I have no desire to go over old ground, I have moved on with my life. That was it as far as I was concerned.

"I have been thoroughly enjoying my football with Birmingham City and have been concentrating all my efforts on the next chapter of my career.

"So, clearly, there would be a lot for me to think about should the situation arise.

"I would have to speak to my family and those whom I have always trusted before any decisions could be made.

"That is, of course, if a call is made from the new manager. So I'll get on with things until I hear anything different."