Ryan Gauld was surprised to earn his first call-up for the Scotland under-21 squad but insists he is ready to be pitched into action.
The Dundee United youngster was named in Billy Stark’s squad for Thursday’s European Championship qualifier against Georgia in Paisley following a string of impressive displays for his club.
For the 17-year-old, international recognition contributed to what was a memorable week, after penning a new deal that keeps him at Tannadice until May 2016 and scoring two goals in a superb display at Motherwell.
Gauld said: “I signed a new contract, got the call-up and then scored two goals on Saturday. It’s been a great week for me and one that I will definitely remember.
“I wasn’t expecting the call-up. I heard the squad was getting announced and saw my name was in it so I was delighted.
“It’s a great experience, I’m only 17 and I want to enjoy it. I feel like I’ve prepared well and hopefully, if I do get a chance, I can take it.”
Gauld has been attracting interest from other clubs but was happy to pledge his future to the Tangerines.
He said: “It’s flattering when I see things like that in the papers but I haven’t let it get into my head. I just get on with my football and work hard.
“Dundee United is the best place for me to develop and learn. Hopefully I can continue getting a chance to play and just develop.”
The playmaker is now hoping to play his part as the young Scots aim to make amends for an away defeat to Georgia in their last outing.
He said: “We will be looking for revenge. To go over there and get beaten 2-1 is disappointing but everybody is confident we can pick up a result this week.”