Goalkeeper David Marshall will make his first competitive start for Scotland in tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Norway.

The Cardiff stopper, whose two previous caps were in friendlies in 2004, has been selected to fill in for injured first-choice Craig Gordon.

Marshall, 24, was picked ahead of Rangers duo Neil Alexander and Allan McGregor - who is still in international wilderness following a breach of squad discipline in April.

Ahead of the Group Nine clash in Oslo, manager George Burley said: “It’s a massive blow losing Craig but it gives someone else a chance.”

And despite being pipped to the No.1 jersey Alexander was quick to back Marshall’s inclusion.

“I think David [Marshall] will play and deservedly so,” he said.

“I know what it’s like to be in the squad for years and be overlooked. I’m here as cover because Craig’s missing.”

Scotland assistant manager Terry Butcher also insisted Burley had made the right choice.

“He makes bold decisions; he’s always done that in his career and he’s done so with Scotland in the past,” said Butcher.

“Sometimes, your gut feelings are your best feelings but that’s down to George and his gut feelings in the past have been very good.”

Gordon has also revealed he expects to return to training this week after three months out through injury.

David Marshall (Goalkeeper, Cardiff City), Alan Hutton (Defender, Tottenham Hotspur), Steven Caldwell (Defender, Burnley), Gary Caldwell (Defender, Celtic), Callum Davidson (Defender, Preston North End), Graham Alexander (Midfielder, Burnley), Scott Brown (Midfielder, Celtic)Kris Commons (Midfielder, Derby County), Darren Fletcher (Midfielder, Manchester United), Ross McCormack (Midfielder, Cardiff City), Kenny Miller (Striker, Rangers)