Barry Ferguson has brought an end to speculation he could come out of international retirement.
Ferguson has not played for Scotland since being banned for his role in the ‘Boozegate’ scandal in April 2009, but had recently hinted he could return following a meeting with Craig Levein.
However, a spokesman for the Scottish Football Association has now confirmed the Birmingham midfielder, 32, will not be part of the next squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Spain.
He said: “During a live radio broadcast, Berry Ferguson intimated that he may consider a return to international football.
“In subsequent conversations with the national team coach, Craig Levein, and the team scout, Michael Oliver, Barry has confirmed this is not the case.
“He will therefore not be considered for selection and the matter is now closed.”
Ferguson’s decision has disappointed older brother Derek, who revealed a heart-to-heart he had with the City player at the weekend.
Derek, also a former Rangers player, told BBC Sport: “We had a long chat and he poured his heart out, so I wasn’t surprised to hear his decision.
“But I’m gutted because I’m a Scotland fan and I’d have loved to have seen my younger brother back for Scotland.
“It’s been playing over and over in his mind and now he’s finally put it to bed.
“I was confident he was going to come back but, if he isn’t 100% right mentally, he has made a wise decision. You don’t want to be part of something if you’re not fully committed.
“There are some things that are niggling away at the back of his mind. I think he was a bit worried about the media circus that would probably surround him. It might even take away from the game (against Spain).
“He is enjoying the quiet life down there (in Birmingham). He’s away from the goldfish bowl up here.
“I can see it in him physically, he is looking better. He’s a happier man, he is not in the spotlight.”