Scotland assistant manager Terry Butcher has welcomed the prospect of Hamilton youngster James McCarthy defecting from the Republic of Ireland to the Scots.
The talented teenager has already been capped at under-21 level by the Don Givens. McCarthy qualifies for Ireland because of his Donegal grandfather.
But unconfirmed reports today claim Scottish Football Association chiefs have held initial talks with his club Hamilton and the player about him switching allegiance to the country of his birth.
‘Scotland are interested in taking on board any quality player and he certainly is a quality player,’ said Butcher.
‘He's had a great season so far and a great career so far, albeit a short one.
‘We are looking at players who are probably more of a senior level, players like Kris Commons and James Morrison, who are established.
‘But, if you can get ahead of the game and get players on board at an early stage, I'm all for that.
‘Aiden McGeady was one that was missed before but hopefully McCarthy won't be.
‘It's down to the player at the end of the day, he has the ultimate choice.
‘It's nice when you have a lot of countries chasing you but hopefully he will turn out for Scotland and hopefully that will mean being part of a squad who is playing well, winning matches, and qualifying for tournaments.’
