Late arrival Bardsley could be thrust into Scotland bow

Scotland manager Craig Levein insists he has no concerns about throwing Phil Bardsley straight into the Euro 2012 qualifier against Czech Republic if necessary.

The Sunderland right-back was a late call-up to the squad, which flew to Prague yesterday ahead of tomorrow's match.

His inclusion will provide cover for Alan Hutton, who is struggling with a groin strain, and that means Bardsley could make his debut sooner than anticipated.

Asked if he would be happy for the former Rangers and Manchester United player to start the match, Levein said: "If the situation means that Phil has to play, then yes.

"He played last week against Manchester United for Sunderland. He's an experienced enough player and I don't have any qualms about that at all."

Bardsley, 25, was born in England but qualifies through his Glaswegian father and had a change of heart about representing Scotland after dismissing the idea as an 18-year-old.

Levein rated Hutton's chances as "pretty good" and is also hopeful goalkeeper Allan McGregor will prove his fitness ahead of the match.

Swansea defender Ashley Williams will captain Wales in tomorrow's Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria. The 26-year-old will take the armband from Craig Bellamy, who is missing the Cardiff City Stadium game and next week's trip to Switzerland through injury.

Celtic midfielder Niall McGinn hopes to play for Northern Ireland tomorrow against Italy even though he is yet to make a first-team appearance this season.

He broke his right foot during a training session last May but with only one reserve match behind him has declared himself fit and ready to face the former world champions.

Northern Ireland go into the match on the back of 1-0 victory against Slovenia in Maribor in their opening qualifier.

Republic of Ireland face a pivotal week in their Euro 2012 qualifying bid.

They launched their Group B campaign with regulation victories over Armenia and Andorra last month, but will take a significant step-up in class over the next few days when they meet Russia and Slovakia – their main rivals for top spot.

They face Russia in Dublin tomorrow at the Aviva Stadium still smarting from their 1-0 reverse at the hands of the Slovakians in Moscow, and a positive result for Giovanni Trapattoni's men would send them to Zilina next Tuesday knowing they could strike a significant blow in the race for the finals.