Stewart speaks up for Scotland pair

Scotland international Michael Stewart believes banned pair Barry Ferguson and Allan McGregor have been wrongly vilified.

The Hearts player feels they have been victims of a similar witch hunt to former bank chief Fred Goodwin.

Ferguson and McGregor were told they would no longer be selected by Scotland for flicking V-signs on the Hampden bench, after a drinking session cost them their place in the World Cup qualifying win over Iceland.

But Stewart has called for the public and media to lay off both Rangers players, who were also suspended by their club.

He hopes they are reinstated by the Scottish Football Association when the furore dies down.

“Stranger things have happened than the two lads getting back into the Scotland set-up, so I hope it’s not the end of their careers,” said Stewart.

“Everyone makes mistakes, and we shouldn’t be too quick to vilify people.

“I’m sure if we look at ourselves we have done things, maybe not of the same ilk, but we have all made mistakes.

“I think the two players are of a benefit to the country – and I think if there’s a way to get around it, we should do.”