Kenneth, Webster and Dixon are in the squad to face Czech Republic

By David McDaid

Peter Houston says three Dundee United players included in the Scotland squad are there on merit and not because of coach Craig Levein's Tannadice past.

Garry Kenneth, Andy Webster and Paul Dixon were named in Levein's squad - his first since leaving United - to face Czech Republic at Hampden.

Houston was Levein's assistant at United and also now with Scotland.

"They've been on form and it's definitely not a favouritism thing," the United manager told BBC Scotland.

"I'd just like to stress that I had no input into the squad selection.

Garry Kenneth has come through the ranks and is playing the best football of his career Dundee United manager Peter Houston

"These guys have earned it. The three of them have probably been our best players this season."

Webster, who has just returned from injury, has already represented Scotland on more than 20 occasions, while the other two defenders are first-time inclusions.

"Garry Kenneth has come through the ranks and is playing the best football of his career," added Houston.

"He's been looking after himself and, along with Darren Dods, has been holding the defence together in Andy Webster's absence.

"He's got all the attributes to be a Scotland player."

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