Hearts boss is mystified by lack of Scots call-ups

DEREK McInnes expressed disappointment that none of his table-topping Hearts players have made the Scotland squad for the upcoming friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast.

- By ANTHONY BROWN AND GAVIN MCCAFFERTY

Derek McInnes hopes some of his squad get a chance in the future

While Lawrence Shankland and Craig Gordon would likely have been included if not for their recent fitness issues, eyebrows were raised that there was no representation from the side who have led the William Hill Premiership for almost six months.

Craig Halkett and Harry Milne were among those to miss out, with Steve Clarke opting for a largely familiar squad that included players not playing regularly at club level.

“Surprised, probably not,” said McInnes. “Disappointed, yeah, absolutely. I think we’ve been a really strong team this season and there’s been key players within it.