Ferguson And McGregor Banned For Life

Rangers' footballer Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor have been told they will never play for Scotland again.

The Scottish FA made the announcement because of a weekend drinking session after defeat by Netherlands and V-signs made on the bench against Iceland

Rangers captain Barry Ferguson had earlier been stripped of his captaincy following a breach of discipline while with the Scotland international team.

Rangers and Scotland players Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor were both sent home from training as punishment for being photographed appearing to flick the 'V' sign during Scotland's victory over Iceland on Wednesday night.

Goalkeeper McGregor has also been dropped by the Glasgow side as a result of the controversy.

Both players remained on the bench for Scotland's 2-1 victory over Iceland during the World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, by manager George Burley.

They had been involved in a drinking session at the team hotel after Saturday's defeat by Netherlands.

Thirty-one-year-old midfielder Ferguson, who is captain for both his club and country, and McGregor have both been called to a meeting with Rangers chief executive Martin Bain this afternoon.

It is understood the club will issue a statement after the meeting, due to finish at 4pm.

Rangers manager and former Scotland boss, Walter Smith, refused to answer speculation on the outcome of the meeting, though confirmed he had taken disciplinary action for the alleged 'V' signs.

Referring to the drinking controversy he said: "We were unhappy about that situation but that was something for George to act on.

"The more disappointing aspect for us was the subsequent action on the bench on Wednesday night.

"From the club's point of view, that was not a good image to project."

Smith also confirmed neither players will be involved in Sunday's Clydesdale Bank Premier League game against Falkirk.

"It's not something we would have wanted at this time, but the timing was not in our control," the Ibrox boss said. "We just have to react to the circumstances and, regrettably, it has happened at this time."

He added: "Life goes on. We have to go on without the lads."

(JM/BMcC)