RAY Harford was today sweating on the safe return of the host of Blackburn Rovers stars on international duty.

The Ewood boss already has an injury list headache in preparation for Rovers' UEFA showdown with Arsenal at Ewood on Saturday.

And with seven players tasting action in last night's round of international matches, Harford will be keeping his fingers crossed that the casualty list has not grown.

Colin Hendry, pictured right, could be the focus of his concern.

He was substituted in Scotland's 2-0 defeat by Denmark in Copenhagen shortly after suffering a crunching tackle by Schonberg near to the touchline.

After receiving treatment he returned to the fray but was withdrawn on 74 minutes in favour of club colleague Billy McKinlay.

Kevin Gallacher, who produced Scotland's best chance of the game when a blistering shot was saved by Peter Schmeichel, was also replaced by Rangers star Ally McCoist.

In the Czech Republic, young keeper Shay Given underlined his potential with a string of fine saves in the Republic of Ireland's 2-0 defeat, with full back Jeff Kenna also completing 90 minutes.

Chris Coleman suffered a night of misery - scoring an own goal and conceding a penalty as Wales also lost 2-0 in Switzerland.

But one man Harford will be relying on to return in one piece is Henning Berg, on duty for Norway in their 0-0 draw with Spain.

"He is so consistent and hardly misses a game - internationals as well," said Harford, who went on to pay the full back a remarkable tribute.

"I think he is very underestimated by a lot of people.

"He's as good a defender as there is in the country.

"Those who play alongside him and work with him will tell you just how good," he added.

The A-team drew 1-1 at Marine, Graham Cass scoring the Rovers goal.

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