Colin Miller is pleased to see the Canadian national team qualify for their first World Cup since his involvement in 1986 - but is puzzled as to why Rangers midfielder Scott Arfield won't be going to Qatar.
The 33-year-old announced his retirement from international duty earlier this year after 19 caps, despite John Herdman's side being on the brink of World Cup qualification.
A 4-0 win over Jamaica on Sunday sealed their place at the major tournament for the first time in what will be 36 years come this winter.
Lanarkshire-born Miller turned out briefly for Rangers between 1984 and 1986, making 61 appearances for Canada over a 14-year international career that ended in 1997.
He has since worked in a coaching capacity with the country he has declared national citizenship with, along with a managerial stint at FC Edmonton, where he worked with Bayern Munich superstar Alphonso Davies.
But the 57-year-old can't understand why Rangers' midfielder picked now to bow out of involvement.
He said: "This is the most exciting time in Canadian's men football for many tears. I was involved when we went to Mexico in 1986 and it was a phenomenal experience.
"We have such a talented team. We have Jonathan Davies at Lille and Alphonso Davies, who I worked with at FC Edmonton. He's now arguably one of the best left-back's in the world.
"You have guys like this and then up until recently, we had Scott Arfield in there as well. I was really surprised when Scott retired from international football.
"He was still very much a prominent player for the national team. But we also have some talented young lads coming through so there's a depth there.
"But I am curious as to why Scott has picked now to bow out of international football. Maybe he's looking after his club career. But it's a big loss for the Canadian international team as he's such a positive influence.
"He's a terrific lad and it would be great to see him coming out of retirement for us. But I am doubtful."
The former Hamilton manager also worked with David Wotherspoon during his time as a Canada coach. St Johnstone 's influential playmaker has missed of this season with a serious knee injury.
Speaking on the Lanarkshire Live Sport Podcast, Miller said: "I had the pleasure of working with David Wotherspoon during my time with Canada. He's a great guy and an excellent professional.
"I really hope he can come back as he's been a big miss for St Johnstone. It was a terrible injury."
