Kenny Miller to give friendly against Australia a miss

Published on 24/07/2012 01:49

Scotland striker Kenny Miller is set to miss the final World Cup qualifying warm-up game against Australia next month after moving to MLS side 
Vancouver Whitecaps.

The forward, captain in the absence of Darren Fletcher, has held talks with Craig Levein and the national team manager believes it will be more beneficial for Miller to continue to acclimatise in his new surroundings instead of making the 9,000-mile round trip for the August 15 clash at Easter Road. On the night Scotland lock horns with the Aussies, the Canadian club are in action against FC Dallas.

Miller, who transferred from Cardiff City, made his debut for the Whitecaps as a 78th minute substitute in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over MLS Western Conference leaders San Jose. Fellow Scotland cap Barry Robson sealed the win with his second goal for the club, while Miller was disappointed not to get his name on the scoresheet in his maiden appearance. Miller said: “I should have had one. It just kind of caught the top of my left thigh as I went to strike it.

“I hope in a couple of weeks time when I’m a little bit fitter that I can put those chances away. I’ve been itching to play, especially after Wednesday night when I sampled the atmosphere against LA Galaxy.”