Injury forces Gordon out of Euro qualifiers

Craig Levein has expressed his disappointment at losing Scotland “talisman” goalkeeper Craig Gordon to injury.

The Sunderland No.1 is expected to miss the first four games of Scotland’s Euro 2012 qualification campaign, against Lithuania and Liechtenstein in September and the world champions, Spain, and Czech Republic in October.

The 27-year-old had an operation on his left arm last night after the recurrence of an injury first sustained in a challenge with the Tottenham Hotspur striker, Jermaine Defoe, in November last year.

Levein admitted losing the £9m goalkeeper is a huge blow. “It is obviously very disappointing to lose a goalkeeper of Craig’s calibre for such a significant part of the campaign,” he said. “I am as disappointed for the player himself as I am for the country because I know how hard he has worked to overcome a series of injuries.

“Craig has been an exceptional goalkeeper for Scotland - a talisman in fact - and I think after getting a metal plate inserted in his arm last season, he was getting back to his best form for Sunderland. He also made some outstanding saves in my first match against the Czech Republic.”

The news comes after Barry Ferguson decided not to return to the international stage but Gordon’s injury has vindicated the national coach’s decision to hand Allan McGregor a reprieve.

“I know the circumstances are not ideal but often that is how an opportunity arises for another goalkeeper. I have no qualms about bringing Allan back in. He is a quality goalkeeper with great experience in Europe with Rangers and we are just fortunate that we are able to call on other top-quality goalkeepers.”

Levein also has the Cardiff City goalkeeper, David Marshall, and the Rangers No. 2, Neil Alexander, to call upon.

The national coach has also welcomed the arrival of Kenny Black as assistant. The former Airdrie United manager was unveiled on Thursday and Levein believes he will be a vital part of a backroom team that also includes the Dundee United manager, Peter Houston.

“I am delighted he is on board,” said Levein. “I felt he was given a raw deal by Airdrie after working under extremely difficult circumstances. At the same time he showed great dignity in how he handled the situation.

“I have known Kenny for a long time but that alone wasn’t a reason for inviting him here. Above all else I am working with someone who knows how I work and somebody I understand and trust. It makes it easier to fulfil the duties of being an assistant coach when that is the case.

“Also, the players will like him because he is a bubbly character and he will add to the chemistry.”