Darren Fletcher ready to take fitness risk

Darren Fletcher says he is ready to take a risk on his fitness if it helps Scotland beat Slovakia on Tuesday.

The West Brom midfielder picked up a knock to his thigh during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Lithuania and now faces a late fitness test ahead of the clash at Trnava’s Stadion Antona Malatinskeho.

Fletcher regained the captaincy of the national team after the retirement of Scott Brown in the summer and having had his career disrupted by illness in recent years, he is now once again a key member of the side.

The draw against Lithuania means a positive result in Slovakia appears vital for the Scots if they are to maintain their hopes of progressing to the 2018 World Cup from a particularly competitive-looking Group F.

Boss Gordon Strachan has made a point of giving youth a chance in his recent squads and will be keen to see Fletcher pass his planned late fitness test due to both the quality and experience he offers the side.

The 32-year-old says he is willing to do all he can to prove he is ready and help his country against the Slovakians.

“I’m willing to take the risk but it’s up to the manager,” said Fletcher. “I’m desperate to play. Obviously club games are important, but representing your country is equally as important. I don’t look to protect myself like that.

“If the manager wants me to play and selects me to play then I’ll be out there doing my best.” Scotland are 3.60 to win in Trnava, with the draw 3.20 and the Slovaks are the 2.25 favourites.