Robson thrilled Boyd is back

Scotland midfielder Barry Robson believes Kris Boyd can play a key role in Craig Levein’s team push for a place in the Euro 2012 finals.

Rangers striker Boyd came off the bench in the 1-0 friendly win over the Czech Republic at Hampden, ending his self-imposed international exile when he replaced club-mate Kenny Miller.

Boyd had refused to be considered for selection under George Burley, but after being recalled by new boss Levein the reception he received from a half-full Hampden when he came on moments after Scott Brown had scored the winner was mostly positive.

Former Celtic player Robson, now at Middlesbrough, said: “Kris is a great player, he scores some great goals and he is great to have around the place, and he will be very important for us in the qualifiers.”

Scotland’s win was their first in a friendly at Hampden since they beat Australia 14 years ago.

Boyd had barely 25 minutes to make an impact but did his best and had a goal ruled out for offside.

“I am delighted to be back,” Boyd said. “I thank the fans for the reception they gave me and hopefully I can repay them with goals that qualify us through the next campaign.