SCOTLAND boss Alex McLeish has been handed a major boost with the news that another Italian World Cup winner has quit international football.

Stopper Alessandro Nesta's retirement comes hard on the heels of inspirational striker Francesco Totti's recent decision to turn his back on the Azzurri.

And big Eck, whose side trail second-placed Italy by one point in Group B of Euro 2008 qualifying, is sure to view the removal of two of the pillars of Italy's 2006 World Cup triumph as a major plus ahead of the November 17 showdown at Hampden.

The 78 times capped AC Milan star admitted it had been a tough decision and said: "I'm not going to play for the national side any more. My adventure in blue finishes here. I am very sorry. I have always treasured the national shirt and the atmosphere of the national side a lot."

The 31-year-old played in three World Cups but his international career has recently been dogged by injury problems.

He was forced to miss last July's World Cup Final victory over France because of a groin injury and has only featured for Italy once since October's 3-1 Group B victory over Georgia in Euro 2008 qualifying.

The Azzurri host leaders France, who they trail by two points, in Milan on September, 8, in a pivotal clash. Scotland trail the French by three points.

Before next month's tie with Lithuania, tickets for Scotland's friendly against South Africa at Pittodrie on Wednesday, August 22 will go on sale tomorrow for members of the Scotland Supporters' Club.

The public sale of tickets will commence on Monday, August 13 and briefs will be available on 08700 131415 priced £20 and £15 for adults and £10 adults, £5 children in the family section.