Skarbalijus pulls out of squad

Family first
The defender had been included in coach Algimantas Liubinskas's squad for both matches, but announced his decision to withdraw today. His wife Jolanta is due to give birth in the near future and, as complications are anticipated, the player chose to be with his family. Skarbalijus also pulled out of the Lithuania squad hours before the country's 3-0 defeat in Iceland in October after his wife suffered a health scare.

'I cannot blame him'
"I am disappointed with this decision but I cannot blame him for taking it," said Liubinskas. "However, Skarbalijus must remember he is 29 years old. If his replacement plays well, it might be the end of Skarbalijus's career with the national team."

International experience
The versatile player, who has won 46 caps and can play on either the left or the right of defence, joined Superligaen side Brøndby IF in 1995, and has since become an important player for both club and country.

Tough tests
Lithuania currently lie fourth in Group 5 with three points from their three games so far, having beaten the Faroe Islands 2-0 but suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to Germany in addition to the loss in Iceland. Germany and Scotland are both unbeaten in their two games so far and occupy first and second place in the table.