Strachan defends Balde

Gordon Strachan has defended Bobo Balde for his tackle on James Wesolowski.

The Guinea international defender shattered the 17-year-old's leg in a challenge in a friendly between the clubs on Tuesday evening that left Craig Levein fuming at the tackle.

Strachan believes there was no malice in Balde's tackle and now wants the youngster to make a speedy recovery in order to make a swift return to playing football.

"The referee has to decide if there is intent. He was the guy closest to it - not me or Craig Levein - and he decided there was no intent," stated Strachan.

"There is a blame culture in this country. But sometimes there can be accidents on the football field. You cannot blame someone for every incident. You cannot do that.

"What we need to be concerned about is the lad and we are now hoping the lad gets back to full fitness because until that point he was having a good game, he was enjoying himself.

"We wish him all the best and I will try to get in touch with him as soon as I can but I have been out the country since eight hours after the game finished."

Meanwhile, Strachan has confirmed The Bhoys are keen on Southampton's Paul Telfer, but is perturbed news of the talks have come out in the press.

The Scottish tactician believes Telfer's experience and versatility will prove invaluable to the Scottish giants.

"We spoke about six weeks ago about Paul Telfer," explained Strachan to Sky Sports News. "Things were getting done away from the press, but it was leaked.

"Yes, we have spoken to Southampton and we would like him here. He's older than the players we're trying to get just now.

"He's a player needed because of the lack of numbers in the squad. We've got good quality, but he would help in numerous positions.

"We are trying our best to bring at least another [player] in."