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Griffiths pulls out of Scotland squad 'to focus on fitness'

Andy Coyle Andy Coyle

The Celtic striker has withdrawn from the squad to play Israel and Portugal.

Decision: Griffiths has dropped out.
Decision: Griffiths has dropped out. SNS Group

Leigh Griffiths has pulled out of the Scotland squad to face Israel and Portugal, saying he needs to concentrate on improving his fitness.

The Celtic striker had initially been named in Alex McLeish's squad for the Nations League clash in Tel Aviv on Thursday and the friendly against the European champions at Hampden on Sunday.

"I feel that I need to focus on my fitness over this international period and get back into the best possible shape," Griffiths said.

"I had a good discussion with the manager to explain my decision. 

"It's not one that I've made lightly. It means a lot to me to play for Scotland and I hope to be part of Alex's plans again in future, if selected.

"My aim is to be back to my best and be available for selection for club and country."

Griffiths played 61 minutes of Celtic's 6-0 win at St Johnstone on Sunday.

The striker, who has four goals from 19 international appearances, had expressed his unhappiness with McLeish indicating that Steven Naismith was in pole position to start against Israel after scoring against Albania. 

McLeish later insisted he had not made a firm decision on the starting striker.

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