Gordon has won 40 caps since his international debut in 2004

Scotland manager Craig Levein is "disappointed" at losing goalkeeper Craig Gordon due to a broken arm.

The Sunderland man fractured a bone in training and will miss the start of the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

The 27-year-old underwent surgery on his arm on Thursday but could be out for the first four qualifying matches.

"It is obviously very disappointing to lose a goalkeeper of Craig's calibre for such a significant part of the campaign," said Levein.

"I am as disappointed for the player himself as I am for the country because I know how hard he has worked to overcome a series of injuries.

"Craig has been an exceptional goalkeeper for Scotland - a talisman in fact - and I think after getting a metal plate inserted in his arm last season, he was getting back to his best form for Sunderland. He also made some outstanding saves in my first match against the Czech Republic," Levein told the SFA's website.

However, the Scotland boss indicated that he had no fears about replacing Gordon with Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor.

"I know the circumstances are not ideal but often that is how an opportunity arises for another goalkeeper. I have no qualms about bringing Allan back in," he said.

I am as disappointed for the player himself as I am for the country Scotland manager Craig Levein

"He is a quality goalkeeper with great experience in Europe with Rangers and we are just fortunate that we are able to call on other top-quality goalkeepers."

Fellow Ibrox man Neil Alexander and Cardiff City goalkeeper David Marshall are also options for Levein.

Levein also welcomed the appointment of Kenny Black as assistant coach after the former Airdrie Utd manager was unveiled on Thursday.

"I am delighted he is on board," said Levein.

"I felt he was given a raw deal by Airdrie after working under extremely difficult circumstances. At the same time he showed great dignity in how he handled the situation.

"I have known Kenny for a long time but that alone wasn't a reason for inviting him here.

"Above all else I am working with someone who knows how I work and somebody I understand and trust. It makes it easier to fulfil the duties of being an assistant coach when that is the case.

"Also, the players will like him because he is a bubbly character and he will add to the chemistry," he added.

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