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Burley keen on Kyle

Burley keen on Kyle

Published: Tuesday, 10 November 2009, 2:27PM

Scotland manager George Burley has urged Kevin Kyle to prove he can become the national team's target man.

The Kilmarnock striker has been included in the squad to face Wales in a Cardiff friendly on November 14 after being forced out of the last two gatherings due to injury.

The former Sunderland striker has netted 14 goals in 22 games since joining Killie from Coventry and Burley believes his power can give the Scotland attack another dimension, saying: "I've chosen Kevin twice and he's been injured. Touch wood it's not three times on the trot and he can come in and show what he has been doing for Kilmarnock for the last few months."

He added: "For that striker with that physical presence and that exceptional aerial ability, I feel we have got a place for someone like that. So Kevin Kyle will be given the opportunity."

Burley has looked to pick his strongest available 23 for the clash at Cardiff City's new stadium, with Ross McCormack, James McFadden, Barry Robson, Steven Caldwell and Kenny Miller all coming back after injury.

Kevin Thomson, Alan Hutton and Steven Naismith are also involved after pulling out of the 2-0 defeat in Japan through injury, along with Celtic left-back Danny Fox.

The experience should give Scotland a competitive edge for the clash against Wales and Burley is especially pleased to have Robson available for the first time this year after the Celtic midfielder finally overcame a groin problem.

"Barry is a very committed lad, a 100% player," Burley said. "He is desperate to play for his country and there is no doubt about his ability.

"I spoke to Tony Mowbray who says he is 100% fit and desperate to play. There is always a position for someone like Barry in my squad."