GALLACHER OUT FOR CROATIA CLASH

The former Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers ace sustained the injury during North End's 1-1 draw with Wimbledon.

Scotland boss Craig Brown admitted the loss of the player, who scored in the 1-1 draw between the two countries last October, was a big blow to his plans.

"It is a setback because Kevin is a proven goalscorer and has scored against these opponents before," said Brown.

There is also a slight doubt over Leicester City defender Matt Elliott.

The powerful defender missed his club's 4-0 defeat at Arsenal on Saturday due to tonsillitis, but he is expected to be able to play in the Hampden Park clash.

Meanwhile former West Ham defender Igor Stimac has admitted that he has come out of international retirement to play against Scotland, as his country needs him.

The Hadjuk Split ace quit the international scene earlier this year, but the Croats have a number of defensive problems for the qualifier and coach Mirko Jozic has named him in the squad.

"Earlier this year I said goodbye to international football, said Stimac. "But in this crucial moment I have decided I must help my boys in the national team.

"I am fit and I want to play for 90 minutes in Glasgow and get the win we need."

Jozic admitted that he was forced to recall the former Derby County man as he had problems with his defence.

"I am very worried about the defence so I have called up Stimac," said Jozic.

"He has vast experience in British football and he will be our last line in the defence."

Middlesbrough striker Alen Boksic has been forced to pull out the squad to face Scotland due to an injury picked up against Everton last weekend.

Boksic joins Fernerbahce striker Milan Rapaic in pulling out of the squad.