Leigh Griffiths returns to Scotland squad

Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths has been named in the Scotland squad for their opening World Cup qualifier against Malta next month.

Griffiths, along with Celtic teammates Craig Gordon, Kieran Tierney and James Forrest, were rested for the pre-Euro 2016 friendlies, but return to the squad for the match at the Ta'Qali National Stadium.

There is no place for Scott Brown following his recent retirement from international duty, but West Bromwich Albion midfielder Darren Fletcher is included.

Fletcher's Baggies teammate James Morrison is another Premier League representative, along with Hull City's Andrew Robertson and Robert Snodgrass and Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur.

However, there is no place for striking duo Jordan Rhodes and Ross McCormack as Gordon Strachan names just four forwards in his squad.

BREAKING NEWS | Scotland squad for the World Cup Qualifier against Malta. pic.twitter.com/5dAxXlnrQu

— Scottish FA (@ScottishFA) August 22, 2016