Bardsley qualifies to play for Scotland and England

The 22-year-old right-back was born in Eccles but qualifies for Scotland through his Glasgow-born father.

"I will watch Bardsley and assess if he warrants selection," said Burley. "If he does it would be a case of speaking to Phil.

"If he didn't want to play for us that would be the end of the story."

Bardsley agreed a three-and-a-half year deal with Sunderland in January after starting his career with Manchester United.

While at Old Trafford, Bardsley was farmed out on loan to Royal Antwerp, Burnley, Rangers, Aston Villa and Sheffield United.

He featured in seven games for Rangers in 2006 before a training ground disagreement saw him sidelined by then Ibrox manager Paul Le Guen.

Tottenham's Alan Hutton has established himself as the first choice right-back for Scotland, while Graham Alexander and Graeme Murty have also been deployed in the role recently.

Steven Whittaker and Kevin McNaughton are also certain to be considered for the position Burley filled as a player for Ipswich and Scotland.

Bardsley has been non-committal about his international future since he was first approached by former Scotland boss Walter Smith.

"Players have to show they want to play for Scotland, show they have passion and a hunger for Scotland," added Burley.

"That is the key. I won't force any man to play for us."