Rangers career decision Scott Arfield analyzed as Canadian legend leaves ‘curious’ over retirement call

Colin Miller is delighted to see Canada’s national team qualify for their first World Cup since his involvement in 1986 – but is confused as to why Rangers midfielder Scott Arfield will not travel to Qatar.

The 33-year-old announced his retirement from international duty earlier this year after 19 caps, even though John Herdman’s side are on the brink of World Cup qualification.

A 4-0 win over Jamaica on Sunday ensured their place in a major tournament for the first time in 36 years this winter.

Miller, who was born in Lanarkshire, made short appearances for Rangers between 1984 and 1986, making 61 appearances for Canada during a 14-year international career that ended in 1997.

Since then, he has worked in a coaching capacity with the country for which he declared his national citizenship, along with managerial stints at FC Edmonton, where he worked with Bayern Munich superstar Alphonso Davies.

But the 57-year-old cannot understand why the Rangers midfielder has chosen now to step back from involvement.

He said: “This is the most exciting time in Canadian men’s football for a lot of tears. I was involved when we went to Mexico in 1986 and it was a phenomenal experience.

“We have a very talented team. We have Jonathan Davies at Lille and Alphonso Davies, who I worked with at FC Edmonton. He is now arguably one of the best left-backs in the world.

“You have people like this and until recently, we had Scott Arfield there too. I was very surprised when Scott retired from international football.

“He is still a very prominent player for the national team. But we also have some talented young players coming in so there’s depth there.

“But I want to know why Scott chose to withdraw from international football. Maybe he kept his club career. But it is a big loss for the Canadian international team because he has a positive influence.

“He’s a great kid and it would be nice to see him come out of retirement for us. But I doubt it.”

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Hamilton’s former manager also worked with David Wotherspoon during his time as Canada coach. St Johnstone’s influential playmaker has missed this season with a serious knee injury.

Speak at Lanarkshire Live Sports Podcast, Miller said: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with David Wotherspoon during my time with Canada. He’s a great guy and an amazing professional.

“I really hope he can come back because he has been a huge loss for St Johnstone. It was a terrible injury.”

Hadwin Floyd

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