Monday 10 November 2014 13:45, UK
Hearts defender Callum Paterson has been called into Scotland’s squad for this Friday’s Sky Live European qualifier against the Republic of Ireland in Glasgow.
Paterson replaces the injured Phil Bardsley who lasted just nine minutes of Stoke’s Premier League trip to Tottenham on Sunday before limping off the White Hart Lane pitch with a groin concern.
The former Manchester United defender will also be sidelined for next week’s friendly against England – which is also being played at Celtic Park.
Bardsley - who had been handed an international recall when Alan Hutton injured an ankle - was taken off after nine minutes of Stoke City's win at Tottenham on Sunday with a groin complaint.
Paterson joins Derby County striker Johnny Russell who was called up by Scotland boss Gordon Strachan at the weekend after Craig Bryson was forced to pulled out of the squad with a hip injury.
The uncapped 24-year-old has scored four goals in his last four games,including a brace in a 5-0 win over Wolves on Saturday.
Scotland assistant manager Mark McGhee said: "As I sit here now I haven't been told for certain that Phil isn't coming.
"Callum Paterson is here.
"The funny thing is I do have a bit to do with Johnny. I watched him last week at Brentford and that point we were looking at people for the squad and they lost 2-1 of course and it wasn't the best game.
"It wasn't convincing so we were swaying a bit and then at the weekend he did enough to convince us that he should be part of it so it is a great boost for him.
"If you heard his interviews and how keen he was to be here - that is one of the messages he wants from players."
Watch Scotland v Republic of Ireland on Sky Sports 5HD (kick-off 7.45pm) on Friday, November 14. The Scotland-England match (Tuesday, November 18) is also being screened on Sky.
