Burley handed debuts to three players at Hampden

Scotland boss George Burley remains in good heart for next month's World Cup qualifying trip to Macedonia after drawing 0-0 with Northern Ireland.

"We knew Northern Ireland would make it difficult for us, they are a strong international side," he said.

"But it was a good workout and I was able to blood a number of new players and they all did well.

"Overall, I thought we passed it quite well at times but there are areas we can still improve on."

A red card for Ryan McGivern should have aided Scotland's cause but it was the visitors who were unfortunate not to claim a winner at Hampden when David Healy failed to convert from the penalty spot.

With a number of regulars missing, there were debuts for Kevin Thomson, Darren Barr and Kris Commons, while Michael Stewart made his first appearance in a Scotland jersey in almost six years.

And Burley was pleased with the contribution from the new faces.

"It was good to see some fresh blood who can do you a job," he added.

"At the moment, there are still four or five players who are borderline in terms of being fit so that is going to dictate the team (for Macedonia).

"We have been a bit unfortunate with injuries since I took over but there is nothing you can do about that and it gives other people opportunities.

"When we know who's going to be available, that will give me a clearer mind about who us going to play.

"We tried James McFadden and Kenny Miller up front and they maybe just lacked that little bit of cutting edge.

"When you are at home and you have a few chances and you put teams under pressure, you are looking to put the ball in the net.

"We were unfortunate a couple of times not to score so it was just that lack of cutting edge that would have won us the game.

"There is still a bit of work to be done but they worked hard and it takes time for any partnership to form.

"At home, you are looking to play with your two strikers and put people under pressure. At times I thought they did well but there is still work to be done.

It's something we have to look at but they both worked their socks off and at times they did well.

"In the second half, we were unfortunate not to get a goal. It was a point-blank save from about two yards from McFadden and if it goes in then we have won the game and the partnership has worked.

"They are both excellent strikers and excellent players - it maybe just doesn't happen overnight."

Goalkeeper Craig Gordon started the game but an impressive display from Allan McGregor - who conceded and then saved a penalty - did not go unnoticed by the Scotland boss.

"There is a close call because you are talking about two top-class international goalkeepers," he said.

"I've said from day one we are fortunate to have that because they are both outstanding.

"Craig Gordon has been terrific for Scotland so we are in a very healthy position. It's healthy competition.

"At the moment, Craig is the number one but Allan has come in and done exceptionally well."