Adam ruled out of Scots’ U21 qualifier

Rangers goalkeeper Grant Adam has withdrawn from the Scotland Under-21s squad ahead of their UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier against Holland.

The 20-year-old was initially named in Billy Stark’s pool of players for next Monday’s clash in Nijmegen, but has now been replaced by Marc McCallum of Dundee United.

Adam pleaded not guilty on Monday to an alleged sectarian breach of the peace when he appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

The player - who is the younger brother of Liverpool and Scotland midfielder Charlie Adam - is alleged to have conducted himself in a disorderly manner by swearing and singing sectarian slogans in Glasgow in the early hours of November 6.

The Ibrox third-choice goalkeeper was released on bail and will appear back at the court on January 25 next year, ahead of a trial on February 10.

Stark said: “I have spoken to Grant. This is a footballing decision and has been made with the interests of all parties ahead of a very important qualifier.”