Dundee United manager Peter Houston has backed Danny Swanson for a Scotland call-up.
National team coach Craig Levein was a spectator at Easter Road on Saturday as the Tangerines’ midfielder put in a star turn against Hibs.
It was Levein who brought Swanson to Tannadice from Berwick in 2008 and once described him as the most gifted player he had ever worked with.
Houston, who is also Levein’s number two with Scotland, revealed the pair haven’t discussed the finalised squad for the forthcoming double header against Liechtenstein and Spain.
However, he had no hesitation in singing his playmaker’s praises.
He said: “Danny Swanson could play at international level. Craig asked me about him before the Carling Nations Cup and I gave him positive vibes back. He was playing well enough at that time.
“Danny has a wee bit of magic. He’s special and, having seen international players up close, I think he could hold his own.
“The one thing that goes against him is the fact he’s not been fit much over the last year. But he’s back now, having been doing his yoga, and is in very good form.
“The big thing for me is keeping him fit because he can always produce something to win you a game.
“He has only played about 15 games since the Scottish Cup final because of his injuries.
“As a club manager you always worry about players on international duty but if he gets the opportunity to play for Scotland I wouldn’t deny that to anyone.”
Houston reported that leg break victim Scott Severin is keeping himself involved with the squad as he continues his long road to recovery.
He said: “Seve has been coming to all the games and he’s at training every other day to see the lads. I think he’s bored sitting about the house so he’s glad to get out and do something.”