Derby midfielder Stephen Pearson's troublesome hernia problem has denied him the opportunity to impress new Scotland boss George Burley.Pearson, who played half an hour as a substitute against Middlesbrough on Saturday, has been forced to pull out of Scotland's friendly international against Croatia on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old joined up with the squad but, following consultation with Derby's medical team, it was decided not to risk him.

Pearson one of seven players to withdraw from the squad and Burley said: "They all reported but the medical people looked at them and they weren't fit.

"Unfortunately, it's as simple as that."

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