Squad behind Burley - Fletcher

Burley heads into Wednesday's World Cup qualifier in Iceland still searching for his first win after four matches and well aware that another defeat is not an option after beginning the campaign losing 1-0 in Macedonia at the weekend.

There were rumours other players are unhappy with Burley, but Fletcher said: "That's a total misrepresentation. George has got the players' backing, especially from me and from players I've spoken to."

He added: "I've not seen any quotes and I'm really disheartened to hear that. I don't know what's been said. But if there are players in this camp that are going behind the backs of the players and manager and saying stuff like that then that's wrong.

"If they've got problems they should be up front, like everyone else with this squad.

"You can see the effort he's putting in. He's trying to take us to the next level. He's trying to make us more expansive and that's not going to happen overnight.

"I think the three friendlies were experimental and George should be judged on the competitive games and qualifying for the World Cup. We started with a defeat but I think we deserved a point."

Adding to his problems on Monday was Lee McCulloch's decision to quit international football to focus on Rangers - just hours after reports suggested he did not want to be considered for selection while Burley was at the helm.

Asked what Burley is like as a manager Fletcher added: "George is passionate, enthusiastic and good to play for. He wants you to go and express yourself.

"He does in-depth analysis on teams. His knowledge is very good and the same will be the case in Iceland. His preparation is first class."