Celtic pair must miss Ukraine clash

Paul Hartley and Gary Caldwell have been ruled out of Scotland’s Euro 2008 qualifier against Ukraine on Saturday.

Both players will formally pull out of Alex McLeish’s squad later, however it is understood the Celtic players have been made aware their injuries mean they must miss the game.

Hartley is also certain to miss the qualifying clash with Georgia next Wednesday (October 17), with Caldwell’s availability for that game undetermined.

Midfielder Hartley has a hamstring injury which is expected to keep him sidelined until the end of October, while defender Caldwell is suffering with knee and ankle problems.

Hartley played a key role in a defensive midfield guise for Scotland in the victory over France in Paris last month.

McLeish’s midfield options are becoming limited with Manchester United’s Darren Fletcher also out due to injury and suspension.

The loss of Caldwell means Scotland will have reduced cover in defence.

The Scottish Football Association have yet to confirm both withdrawals, however official notification could follow this afternoon.