Craig Levein will have no fears about making David Weir Scotland's oldest capped player - because the coach thinks he is the best defender he has.

The 40-year-old was recalled to the squad on Tuesday ahead of the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Lithuania and Liechtenstein next month.

"David's in the team, or in the squad, because I believe he is as good a centre-back as we've got," said Levein.

Weir had been left out of the squad for this month's friendly against Sweden.

"I didn't think there was much point taking David to Sweden," said Levein.

"But, when it comes to the competitive matches, I want the best players available to play for Scotland and I firmly believe that at this moment in time he is the best player available."

David Weir has a decent chance of starting Scotland coach Craig Levein

A young, experimental defence was exposed by the Swedes, who eased to a 3-0 win in Stockholm.

Levein's first match in charge was a heartening 1-0 over Czech Republic last season, but both the centre-backs that started against the Czechs have not played this season.

Wigan defender Gary Caldwell is still recovering from double hip surgery, while Rangers defender Andy Webster has a hamstring strain, although he was included in the squad.

Even so, Levein dismissed suggestions he had assured Weir of a starting place.

"He has a decent chance of starting," said the coach. "But, to be honest, after picking the squad for the game in Sweden, I had that many changes, it's almost impossible to have a team picked at this stage.

"Past experience has taught me to wait and see who is available."

It is to experience that Levein will turn for his first competitive games, with 33-year-old Aberdeen midfielder Paul Hartley also being recalled.

Weir looks set to start, perhaps alongside Stephen McManus, in Kaunas on 3 September, with either Lee McCulloch or Hartley likely to sit in midfield.

"We have got two players who can play in that position, which we didn't really have in Sweden, certainly not anyone with any experience," said Levein.

"We'll also have Scott Brown available, Kenny Miller and McManus. I didn't play either of those guys.

"If you look through the squad, you will see there is a lot more experience.

"Because, when it comes to international football, guys who have been over the course before, and understand what it's all about, don't get fazed by different situations.

"I need as many guys in the team come the first match to be comfortable in their surroundings and environment and who they are playing with.

"It makes them play better football. When it comes to these critical games, experience will be vital."

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