Burley has shrugged off an Achilles problem

Derby County midfielder Craig Burley has set his sights on returning to the Scotland squad in time to play against the Republic of Ireland.

The former Celtic star has spent much of the last year sidelined with an Achilles injury.

But the 31-year-old hopes to return to the international stage when the two sides meet in a friendly at Hampden Park on 12 February.

"I'm back playing now after a year out with an Achilles injury," he told the Sunday Mail newspaper.

"All being well, I'm hoping to be back for the Ireland game."

Burley must now hope that Scotland manager Berti Vogts values his experience, having so far gone down the road of blooding younger players.

West Ham United forward Don Hutchison is expected to make his long-awaited return to international football against Ireland.

The 31-year-old has just returned to club action after months out with a serious knee injury.