McArthur rules himself out of Scotland duty until 2019

The 30-year-old will not feature when Scotland boss Alex McLeish names his squad for the upcoming games against Belgium and Albania on Monday as he looks to ensure a complete recovery from the issue.

McArthur has featured in all three of his club side's Premier League games of the new season to date, but reportedly feels the extra rest provided by the international breaks between now and the new year will help him rid himself of his back problem completely.

Despite his self-imposed absence, McArthur is understood to have spoken to McLeish and reaffirmed his commitment to his country, meaning that he will be in line for a recall when he is recovered.

The former Hamilton and Wigan man made his debut for his country back in 2010 and has 32 caps to his name.