SCOTLAND legend John Robertson has warned John Carew not to return to Aston Villa if he helps inflict defeat on Scotland.

The Villa assistant manager has been giving the Norwegian a hard time in the build-up to Hampden.

Carew is considered the main dangerman for Scotland this weekend but Robbo - Martin O'Neill's right-hand man - says he hasn't missed the 28-year-old.

He said: "We have had quite a bit of banter about the Scotland game. The big man has been well warned not to return if Scotland lose.

"All last week myself and Roddy Macdonald, the club doctor, were singing the national anthem. John will have Flower of Scotland ringing in his ears."

On a serious note, however, Robertson says he is a major fan of the powerful striker and knows he could give the Scotland defence big problems.

He said: "He's a handful. In my opinion when he is on song he is as good as anyone there is in the game. He is a big lad who is extremely strong but he has no shortage of ability.

"He has good feet and can play a bit, that's for sure. He also has a fair bit of pace about him and he can hold the ball up and bring other players into play. That's his biggest asset - his major strength.

"John has been terrific for us this season in the Premiership.

"It will be difficult for the Scotland boys at the back. Whatever they do they'll need to keep a close eye on Carew.

"He'll lean back into them and try to throw his weight around. The less he gets of the ball the less harm he can do though.

"So that means try to stop the service into him. He obviously relies on service so that could be the key.

"But fingers crossed Scotland can win the game and we can get some more points on the board."