Christian Dailly says the lack of Rangers players in the Scotland squad simply reflects the gruelling season the Light Blues have endured.Scotland manager George Burley omitted Allan McGregor, Barry Ferguson, David Weir and Lee McCulloch from his original squad for Friday's friendly against Czech Republic in Prague.

But the Scotland boss has been hit by another raft of withdrawals, which include Light Blues stars Kris Boyd, Steven Whittaker and Kevin Thomson.

Dailly, 34, who is set to sign a new one-year contract with the Ibrox club, insists the 68-game season Walter Smith's men have just completed has caught up with them.

"It gives you a snap-shot of the conditions that a number of the players have been playing under in the last few months to be honest with you," he said.

"Everyone has valid injuries and there is nothing you can do about it.

"A lot of the boys at Rangers have been struggling with injuries and the number of games that we've had has definitely taken its toll.

"We have been using players who have been basically half-fit for many parts of the season.

"I think of all of them who were going to be here were at risk. There has to be an element of common sense at times.

"If you are carrying something that is a risk then obviously you have to make sure it's well looked after.

"Everybody would like to be here but it's not always possible which is a shame."

"But to be honest, I don't think the manager (Burley) wants half-fit players," Dailly added.

"It's one of those problems you have when you have a game at the end of the season but it gives other people a chance."

Dailly insists his passion to play for Scotland is as strong now as it was when he won his first cap in a 1-0 defeat against Wales 11 years ago.

The former Dundee United and Derby player has won 66 caps and has been inducted into the Scottish Football Association's Hall of Fame at Hampden after reaching the half-century mark but he will continue to serve his country if selected.

He said: "I've always got the same mentality. I will always be ready to play if I'm ever called upon.

"If I'm in the squad I turn up to play and if I play, I play.

"Keeping my enthusiasm isn't a problem. It's just a natural thing for me.

"It's a great life playing football and I'm the type that likes going in to training every day, playing and being involved.

"So I don't think keeping enthusiastic is a difficult thing.

"I think some players retire too early but as far as I'm concerned, if you are fit enough then keep playing. It's great fun.

"I will go with the flow and keep playing until I can't play any more or I'm not picked."

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