Brighton striker Craig Mackail-Smith feels settled and comfortable in and around the Scotland squad.
Scotland new-boy relishing the international stage
Brighton striker Craig Mackail-Smith feels settled and comfortable in and around the Scotland squad.
The 27-year-old only has five caps to his name after making his debut against Brazil as a late substitute earlier this year.
The Watford-born striker started Scotland's Euro 2012 qualifier away to Spain and he is now hoping to get the nod against Cyprus.
Mackail-Smith knows the more he plays the more he will be accustomed to international football, starting with Friday's friendly.
Comfortable
"I feel like I'm more comfortable," commented Mackail-Smith. "This is probably my fifth cap so I'm pretty new to it still but I still feel really comfortable now.
"The more I get involved, the more relaxed I'll become. If I get a starting place and hold it down, that will be fantastic. You've got to go out and do the best in these games.
"It's a great game for new players coming in and a great game for the squad to go out and score a few goals and enjoy the occasion. This is a friendly to try new things and hopefully we'll score some goals.
"You can feel a bit of a buzz because the new lads are looking forward to being involved.
"Everyone is excited and looking forward to the game and playing for their country. We've got double sessions throughout the week so we're working hard on pattern of play and getting everyone used to the new players and each other, and building up for Friday.
"We haven't come here to sit by the pool and enjoy the sunshine. It's a good thing for the players to come away and get used to each other.
"We need more occasions like this to get everyone together to get ready for the World Cup qualifiers."
Friendlies
Although the majority of club managers are unhappy with the number of international friendlies on offer, Mackail-Smith thinks that having more matches would be of benefit.
"Having more friendlies is a great idea," he continued. "You get the team together more, you build up more of a relationship because it's difficult coming in and having four or five days together to prepare and play a game.
"The more friendlies, the more the squad and team get used to each other. It's good for players who want to break into the team because you have more opportunities to prove to the gaffer why you should be starting."