Shaun Maloney: Scotland boss Strachan happy with MLS move

Image source, SNS Group

Image caption, Shaun Maloney has scored four goals in 37 appearances for Scotland

Shaun Maloney sought assurances from manager Gordon Strachan that a move to the United States would not jeopardise his Scotland career.

The 32-year-old midfielder has completed a move to Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire from Wigan.

And he is pleased that Strachan endorsed the change of scenery.

"The national team means the world to me - it's a huge motivation, so it was good that I got the green light from him," revealed Maloney.

The former Celtic star has been a key figure for Strachan's Scotland, scoring in the most recent Euro 2016 qualifiers against Poland and the Republic of Ireland.

First capped almost a decade ago, there can have been few moments in his 37 international appearances to rival Maloney's wonderful finish against the Irish, which was enough to secure a vital victory in November.

On his talks with Strachan, Maloney added: "I spoke to him early January as well when I decided that this move was what I wanted - out of courtesy I had to phone him and find out his thoughts, and he had no issues.

"I spoke to him again a couple of days before I travelled over just for a second reassurance and no problems, he was actually very excited for the move and for the new challenge."

Maloney failed to agree a transfer to Leicester earlier this month after a fee had been settled.

"It's difficult when you're contract is running out and my previous club want the best deal for their club which you have to respect," he explained.

"The ideal scenario would have been to for me to go to a club in the Premier League in England. But I spoke to the manager [Frank Yallop] early in January and the move motivated me. It's a fresh challenge, different county, different league and my heart was set on it.

"I gave the manager my word and there was no going back. I have to respect my last club - they wanted the best deal for their own club but this is where I wanted to be.

"I appreciate the owner [Andrew Hauptman] as well because the owner and the manager worked pretty hard and it wasn't easy particularly the last couple of weeks for everybody involved, but I appreciate the work and faith they have put in me and the patience."