Jamie Mackie returns to international duty
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Jamie Mackie has been handed a start for Scotland in tonight's friendly against Cyprus in Larnaca.
The QPR player will make his international comeback after recovering from the broken leg he suffered in an FA Cup tie against Blackburn early in the year.
Mackie is likely to start on a wide position in a 4-5-1 formation with Barry Robson on the opposite flank.
Kenny Miller returns up front after missing the last three internationals through suspension and injury.
His Cardiff team-mate, Don Cowie, lines alongside Darren Fletcher and James Morrison in central midfield.
Allan McGregor starts in goal and there is only one change to Levein's regular back four from recent matches, with Steven Whittaker replacing the injured Alan Hutton at right-back.
Levein named his team this morning after Bardsley and Fletcher trained with the group for the first time yesterday following minor fitness issues.
Mackie's return came after the Scotland manager was forced to do without a host of midfielders. Scott Brown, Charlie Adam and Graham Dorrans are injured, James Forrest was recalled to the Under-21s for their crucial European qualifier against Holland, and Barry Bannan was left out following his recent arrest on suspicion of drink-driving.
Levein is planning to hand debuts to several players if the game goes his team's way, with Blackpool goalkeeper Matt Gilks and Huddersfield striker Jordan Rhodes both in line to play.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments