To see the Socceroos training in China...

McDonald's first goal in six games inspired Celtic to victory against Gretna this weekend but he was substituted by Georgios Samaras after 65 minutes with a calf strain.

Now he has pulled out of the trip to China to play for Australia in the World Cup qualifier.

The FFA in China this afternoon confirmed McDonald would not be joining the squad for the match. No-one else will be drafted in as an SOS replacement, an FFA spokesman added.

"That's it - there will be no late additions," said a spokesman. "We do still have a couple of guys from the Singapore match though."

Celtic have a potentially season-deciding Old Firm clash against Rangers next weekend and McDonald is wanted by his club to play a key part in the game.

Celtic boss Gordon Strachan said: "We had to take him off because he picked up a calf strain and when you have something like that it doesn't help you to be on a plane for that length of time.

"He has made a phone call and will not be going."

Just last week, McDonald spoke of his determination to play for Australia despite the 'sacrifices' he would have to make.

"They'll be making sure we're well looked after and we come back in good condition because the last thing they want is clubs complaining about it and not letting us go the next time," he said.

"I'll be back in Glasgow on Thursday.

"Last time I came back from Australia having played on the Wednesday we played Aberdeen on the Sunday and we won 5-1 and I scored a double.

"So it's okay as long as you look after yourself."

He added: "These are the sacrifices you have to make for your country.

"It's important for me because it's a chance to play in the World Cup. To turn my back on that would be pretty stupid.

"The gaffer has fully backed us as well. He's been great with everyone, he always wants his players to play for their country."

To see the Socceroos training in China...