Kris Commons retires from international football

CELTIC and Scotland midfielder Kris Commons has announced that he has retired from international football, in order to focus on his family and his club career.

Celtic midfielder Kris Commons has retired from the international scene in order to focus on his family and club career. Picture: SNS

Commons earned 12 caps for Scotland, scoring two goals but was at the centre of a row with former international boss Craig Levein after being repeatedly left out of the national side.

The 29-year-old told Celtic’s official website: “I have enjoyed my time immensely with the Scotland team and it was a very proud moment every time I pulled on the Scotland shirt. I will always, of course, be a Scotland supporter.

“I have thought about this decision for some time. At this stage of my career I just want to give Celtic my 100 per cent commitment and ensure I can prolong my club career as long as possible.”

The former Derby midfielder added that he wanted to focus more on his young family, something he said he had been unable to do for some time.

Commons added: “Neil Lennon had spoken to Gordon in person a while back and I was really pleased to speak to Gordon today.

“I am on very good terms with him and I wish him and the Scotland team all the very best for the future.”

Commons, who made his Scotland debut in 2008, is expected to line up for Celtic in this weekend’s Scottish Cup Final against Hibernian.