Dickov overlooked by Scotland

Scotland manager Berti Vogts has omitted Paul Dickov from his squad for the friendly against Romania on March 31 but insists the Leicester striker is still in his plans for the future.

The Foxes' forward is currently on bail after being charged with 'sexual aggression' following an alleged incident at the La Manga resort in Spain last month.

Vogts said: "I have spoken with Paul at length over the past few days and we have agreed that, on this occasion, I will not select him for the Scotland squad.

"At present he just wants to get back to playing for Leicester before he can focus 100% on representing his country.

"I respect his decision and Paul remains in my plans for the future."

However, Vogts has given first call-ups to Livingston defender David McNamee and Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon for the game.

Gavin Rae, Steven Thompson, Neil McCann and Graham Alexander all return to the squad.

Paul Ritchie of Walsall and Reading's Graeme Murty also retain their places in the squad.

Scotland have also confirmed a friendly against Sweden at Hampden Park for November 17.

Vogts revealed he had talked to Dickov, who had been the Scots' best performer in an otherwise dismal 4-0 defeat in Wales last week, about the Romania friendly.

He said: "We had a lot of chats together and I also phoned Micky Adams last week.

"I spoke to Paul last Friday, yesterday and the day before. He said that at the moment he feels he has to do something for Leicester.

"I have to accept this and he knows he is part of the plans for the future. We will have another chat together when we play the next fixture, in Copenhagen.
"It is a hard time for him and his family and I have to accept that. We have to support him."

Scotland travel to Copenhagen next month for a friendly with Denmark when Dickov could return to the squad.

Vogts added: "There is a chance he will be in the squad in Denmark. He needs a little bit of a rest."