Aston Villa right-back Alan Hutton retires from Scotland duty

Aston Villa right-back Alan Hutton has announced his retirement from Scotland duty.

The 31-year-old, who won 50 caps, informed Gordon Strachan of his decision before the squad for Friday's World Cup qualifier with England was announced in midweek.

Hutton had failed to regain his place from Hearts man Callum Paterson for last month's games against Lithuania and Slovakia after pulling out of the previous two squads through injury.

The former Rangers and Tottenham Hotspur player told The Observer: "I feel this is the right time to spend more time with my family, put everything I have professionally into doing well at Villa and give others a chance for Scotland.

"I've had a really enjoyable nine years with Scotland and would like to think I have done my bit for my country.

"I'd like to thank all the managers I have played under, especially Gordon for sticking by me when I wasn't a club regular. We had a couple of good chats over the last few weeks and I appreciate his understanding. I wish both Gordon and the team all the best for the future."

Hutton made his Scotland debut in a friendly against Austria in May 2007, and was part of the team that memorably defeated France 1-0 in Paris four months later.