O'Connor missed Scotland's trip to Ukraine in October 2006

O'Connor failed to show up at the team hotel the morning after Scotland's shock 1-0 win over France on 7 October.

In an open letter, he cites "extenuating circumstances" for his non-appearance.

He said: "I unreservedly wish to offer my apologies for what can only be described as letting everyone down."

Interview: Agent Gary Mackay

O'Connor was absent as Scotland travelled to Ukraine the midweek after the France game.

There were reports of family problems and of the player being unsettled in Moscow.

But he failed to contact Walter Smith to explain his actions before the manager left to join Rangers in January.

He knows he made a big mistake Agent Gary Mackay

O'Connor, who moved to Lokomotiv for �1.6m in March 2006, played under Alex McLeish at Hibernian.

But the new national coach has warned that the 23-year-old had much explaining to do if he was to return to the international scene.

Now the striker has pleaded for a second chance.

In the letter, which was addressed to "the SFA, Walter Smith, the staff and all Scotland fans", O'Connor said: "My only defence is that there were extenuating circumstances in my life at the time which I have great difficulty in talking about.

"Ultimately, on reflection, I realise that this is no excuse for my behaviour and, should I be given a second chance, I intend to grab it with both hands.

"With this in mind, I have contacted the present management team to make them aware of my desire to play for my country again if selected."

O'Connor's agent, Gary Mackay, said the statement was an indication that the player had put personal troubles behind and wanted to be considered for a return to the international squad.

"He is just more settled in his life," he told BBC Sport.