Andy Gray was today left out of the Scotland squad for next week's friendly in Norway.

City's top-scorer last season had been included in the short-list of names for the game in Oslo on Wednesday. But he was not among the 24 names announced today by national boss Berti Vogts.

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is the surprise face after being called up for the first time.

Meanwhile,Gareth Whalley is eager to lock horns with his old club when City head for Cardiff on Saturday.

The silky midfielder played a key role in the promotion and Premiership survival seasons during his four-year stint at the Bradford & Bingley Stadium.

And after recovering from tendinitis problems, he cannot wait to face City for the first time since moving to south Wales 14 months ago.

Whalley, who played the full game in Cardiff's 4-1 Carling Cup win over Leyton Orient, said: "I'm fit and I'd love to play against Bradford City."

The 29-year-old made his final City appearance in March last year at Burnley. He then returned to first club Crewe on loan before joining Cardiff, as the Bantams plunged towards administration.

Whalley said: "It was a great shame because Bradford City supporters are so passionate, just like our fans at Ninian Park. They have the same level of expectancy which can be found in Cardiff.

"There aren't too many of the lads from my time there left at the club now but it would still be great to play against them."

Whalley still fondly recalls City's time among the elite.

"It was a great experience playing at all those famous Premiership grounds."