Miller’s return to the international fold can inspire his Pittodrie colleagues, says Dons manager
Calderwood tips Mulgrew to make Scotland breakthrough
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Charlie Mulgrew has been tipped as the next Aberdeen player to follow striker Lee Miller into the Scotland team.
Miller made a good impression during his 45-minute appearance against Argentina at Hampden on Wednesday.
Dons manager Jimmy Calderwood, who missed the match due to a scouting trip to England, has had positive reports from the international friendly and believes Miller’s return to the international fold can inspire his Pittodrie colleagues.
Calderwood said: “I thought George Burley may have opted to put David Clarkson on ahead of Lee when Chris Iwelumo came off at half-time because David had been in the squad from the beginning. Thankfully, it went in Lee’s favour.
“I spoke to Lee this morning and he felt he had done well, both in training and in the game. Lee isn’t one to talk himself up, so the fact he feels he did himself justice is a great sign.
“I told him to go out and enjoy himself if he got his opportunity. It will depend on how George approaches the game in Holland but Lee will now be in his thoughts for that squad.”
Miller’s call-up has given the Aberdeen manager confidence more of his players will soon be in Burley’s plans.
He said: “Kirk Broadfoot played left back against Argentina because of an injury to Gary Naysmith, so you never know when the door might open up for a player – just as Lee Miller and other forwards have benefited from Kris Boyd’s decision not to play for Scotland.
“Gary Naysmith is a good player but he will not be around forever and you have to look at Charlie Mulgrew as a potential Scotland player. If Charlie can build on the defensive side of his game he has the ability to play at that level. He has a big physical presence and is wonderful on the ball.
“Zander Diamond and Andrew Considine could also force their way in. They have already performed admirably against some of the best forwards in Europe.”
Miller returned to training yesterday with his club and will lead the line against Rangers at Ibrox tomorrow. He could be joined by regular partner Darren Mackie, who has made a swift recovery from the hamstring strain which forced him out of Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Hibs at half-time.
Stuart Duff has had knee surgery and remains sidelined. Tommy Wright faces an extended period of rest as he bids to overcome an Achilles injury, while Jamie Smith and Bertrand Bossu are also out.
