Caley Thistle's Ryan Esson not in Scotland squad

CALEY Thistle goalkeeper Ryan Esson has missed out on a call up to the Scotland squad.

But counterpart Jonny Tuffey has been included in the Northern Ireland side for forthcoming Carling Nations Cup games against Republic of Ireland and Wales.

Tuffey — who is an established internationalist — had told The Inverness Courier he thought Esson had been the most consistent keeper in the SPL this season, perhaps with the exception of Rangers and Scotland number one Allan McGregor.

But Inverness fans’ player of the season Esson was not named by Scotland manager Craig Levein for the forthcoming games against Wales and Republic of Ireland in the same competition.

Levein selected uncapped stoppers Matt Gilks from English Premier League side Blackpool and Everton youngster Iain Turner, who ended the season on loan at relegated English Championship side Preston, as back-up for McGregor.

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