CLARKE Carlisle is backing Burnley captain Steven Caldwell to boost Scotland’s bid for a place in next year’s World Cup finals.

The Clarets captain is expected to line up alongside his brother, Celtic defender Gary, at the heart of George Burley’s backline when they take on Norway tonight after a three-year absence from the international stage.

Scotland lie second in Group 9, four points ahead of bottom placed Norway with seven, and a win in Oslo would all but guarantee their ticket to South Africa next year.

Caldwell is being tipped to earn his 10th cap with his first start since a 2-2 draw with Austria in August 2005, and Carlisle believes his recall is long overdue.

“I couldn’t understand why the Skip wasn’t in squads before. The way that he led the team last season was outstanding, he (was consistent) for the full season and that’s why he is the captain,” said the Clarets central defender, who partnered Caldwell in 44 of Burnley’s 61 league and cup games last term.

“He’s going to lead us on to bigger and better things this season, and a call-up to the international squad is no less than he deserves.”

Steven Fletcher and defensive midfielder Graham Alexander are also likely to be involved in Oslo tonight. And Carlisle is confident that record signing Fletcher can have a significant impact for club and country this season.

“Steven Fletcher is a fantastic signing. The manager has been unbelievably astute in the transfer market,” said the 29-year-old.

“He’s skulked out players; obviously he's seen a few when he was up there in Scotland and his scouting network's done well because he’s brought in young, hungry players, high levels of not only energy of not only ability and quality.

“They’re settling into the side very well and no less Steven Fletcher. What I’ve seen of him I think £3million is an absolute bargain.”

As for Alexander, Carlisle believes the 37-year-old is ready to make up for lost time in the top flight.

“He’s a name who sounds like he's been around for ages, because he has,” he said.

“He’s played well over 700 games, and the experience that he brings to the side is invaluable, not only in training but just in and around the dressing room.

“The manner in which he conducts himself, he deserves another five years in the game and I'm sure he'll get them.

“He’s a consummate professional, but he’s such an example to the younger players. If you want to prolong your career and go on, like Grezza, then that’s the way to do it.

“In a playing sense, he’s the cement that holds the house together, sitting in front of the back four, he marshalls the defence magnificently and he also instigates attacks magnificently.

“He’s a valuable asset to this team.”