STEPHEN McMANUS admits he will welcome a well-deserved rest ahead of Scotland's make-or-break Euro 2008 qualifier against Italy at Hampden next month.
But the Celtic defender believes the fact that the whole country is throwing their backing behind the national team's qualification bid means more than some much-needed respite.
The Scottish Premier League gave Scotland's hopes a boost when they
agreed to postpone Celtic and Rangers' fixtures the weekend prior to the visit of the Azzurri on November 17.
Both sets of players have been subjected to gruelling schedules this season as the Old Firm attempt to compete in both the Clydesdale Bank Premier League and the Champions League.
McManus, in particular, has had a tough time after suffering a head knock during a qualifier against Ukraine before being knocked out cold following a clash of heads a week later in the Old Firm derby.
Within a few days, he was back in action yet again for Celtic's Champions League clash against Benfica in Lisbon.
Looking ahead to a rare free weekend, he admitted: "We have certainly played a lot of games. But I know none of the players will complain because when you have sat on the bench or in the stand you appreciate playing every week.
"But if the SPL can help the national team in any way then I think it is important that they do so to give us the best possible chance of qualifying."
The Celtic skipper also hailed Alex McLeish's reported decision to run out the Bolton managerial position which was recently filled by Gary Megson. McManus said:
"I think it was important that he stayed with one game left."
