FORFAR’S SCOTT Fullerton has waited longer than most for his chance to shine on the international stage and he admits he’s not willing to let it slip this time.
Fullerton was one of 18 to earn selection for the Lloyds TSB Scotland U18s squad for the 2013 Centenary Shield after a successful final trial at Toryglen Regional Football Centre on Friday.
The 17-year-old, who plays on the right side of midfield, fell short at the same stage this time last year and revealed the devastation he felt drove him on to succeed 12 months on.
Opening their campaign away to Northern Ireland on February 22, followed by a trip to Wales, the Scottish U18s welcome the Republic of Ireland in March before the clash with England on April 12.
And with a point to prove, Forfar Academy pupil Fullerton, who plays for Arbroath under-19s, cannot wait to finally don the famous blue jersey in just over two months time.
“I got to this stage last year at the final trials and I didn’t get in, so I was a little bit more nervous and desperate to get in this year,” said Fullerton.
“I think missing out last year helped. I knew what to expect and what the process involves. I was devastated after missing out last year, I remember coming off the pitch and being upset but I think that helps you and it’s about how you react.
“I’ve reacted well with my club side and I’ve done well to get in now. This is the biggest moment of my career so far, without a doubt.
“I took a bit of a knock to the confidence last year but it’s all coming together now, and hopefully this can help me get that first-team contract at the end of the season with Arbroath.
“I can’t wait to pull on that Scotland jersey. It is every schoolboy’s dream, since I was a boy at about four-years-old and it’s finally happened.”
enicolson@thecourier.co.uk