Roger Johnson coy on England call

Birmingham defender Roger Johnson has poured cold water on his England hopes – as Alex McLeish told Barry Ferguson to decide whether to answer Scotland's call.

Blues boss McLeish, whose team face Albion in the first derby of the season tomorrow, has talked up Johnson as future international material but the centre-back has played down his chances.

He said: "Playing for your country is the biggest accolade in football. I would be a liar if I said I didn't want to play for England. I'd love nothing more.

"But I could only get a chance of that by playing well. We will see.

"It's only my second season in the Premier League and it's down to the manager."

McLeish will also leave it up to Blues midfielder Ferguson to decide whether he wants to return to the Scotland fold.

The 32-year-old has not played for Scotland since being involved in the 'boozegate' scandal, involving a drinking session at the Scotland team hotel 18 months ago during George Burley's reign.

But an olive branch offered by Burley's successor, Craig Levein, has opened up the prospect of a dramatic return.

Former Scotland boss McLeish said: "I know it is obviously eating at him and I think Craig is trying to influence him to go back.

"It is a big ask for a player of 32 but it is up to him"