Gary Mackay-Steven has admitted that he needs to bring more consistency to his game if he wants to emulate former Dundee United team-mate Andy Robertson and force his way into national boss Gordon Strachan’s thoughts once again.
Robertson has been a revelation for Scotland since making his full international debut back in March and produced another impressive performance in Saturday’s Euro 16 qualifier against Georgia at Ibrox.
“GMS”, who won his only cap so far against the USA in a friendly last year, admits he is delighted for the full-back and he would like nothing better than to join him in future Scotland squads.
He said: “It is great to see Andy slot right in. He is looking the part at left-back. He is really making it his own which is nice to see.
“I just need to get my head down and be consistent in a number of games.
“I need to raise my levels and I think if I do that, score a few goals then I won’t be too far away (from Scotland) but first and foremost I want to do as well as I can for United.”
Mackay-Steven, like the rest of the United squad, went into the international break feeling disappointed following a poor performance and defeat at Kilmarnock that ultimately cost them their place at the top of the Premiership table.
Now, he insists they are looking to make amends against Partick Thistle at Tannadice this Saturday.
He said: “We have had a few extra days to reflect on the Kilmarnock game but we are still right up there in the league.
“It is a home game against Partick and it is one we are really looking forward to. It can’t come round quickly enough.
“We want to get back to winning ways and stamp our authority at the top of the league.”
Mackay-Steven has previously intimated that this season will be his last at United.
His contract runs out in the summer and he has said he will not sign a new one, with a move to England being his preferred option.
However, the winger is adamant that he will not allow future concerns to blur his focus on doing well for United.
He said: “To be honest, I just ignore it (speculation). Especially during the season when you have games coming up, you just need to focus.
“The rest will sort itself out. If I do my work on the pitch, everything else will take care of itself.”