Kenny McLean is ready to miss his family holiday if it means he can don the dark blue of Scotland once more this summer.
The Aberdeen midfielder became the first Pittodrie player since Chris Maguire in 2011 to represent his country when he started for Gordon Strachan’s side in the 1-0 win against the Czech Republic in Prague a week ago.
Further friendlies beckon for the Scots in Malta on May 29 against Italy and in Metz on June 4 against Euro 2016 hosts France and McLean would love to be part of Strachan’s squad in the summer even if it means missing out on a family break.
He said: “Having made my debut last week I know this is the only the start and I have to work even harder to be in the next squad.
“Last week has only made me more determined and I’m hoping a big finish to the season at club level can lead to more international recognition.
“I have a family holiday booked for Bulgaria but that will be cancelled if I am called up again, although I’m sure my family will go and enjoy it without me.”
McLean’s passion for the cause is clear. Speaking at St Machar Academy yesterday, where he was helping promote the Tesco Bank Football Challenge, where 158 primary school children took part in football sessions, the Aberdeen midfielder’s pride at representing his country was obvious.
He said: “The last week has brilliant, one of the best weeks of my career so far. To get the recognition and be in the squad was massive for me and my family. It’s something I’ve dreamed about as far back as I can remember so to be involved and get the start topped it.
“I’ve worked hard for this and the experience has made me want more.
“I got two shirts so they will both be framed and I’ll keep one and the other will go up in my mum and dad’s house.”
McLean was not the only Don on international duty, however, with Jonny Hayes making his international debut for the Republic of Ireland while attackers Niall McGinn and Simon Church were also on international duty with Northern Ireland and Wales.
With Hayes, McGinn and Church all hoping to play in Euro 2016 this summer McLean hopes the Dons can benefit in the Scottish Premiership title run-in.
He said: “It’s been a while since an Aberdeen player represented Scotland but it shows how far the club has come in the last couple of years that we are being noticed again.
“We did well at the start of the season in Europe and have had a good campaign which is why a lot of players are being involved in international squads.
“It’s great the players are getting the recognition and the others who haven’t been involved will be hungry to be involved – that can only be good for the club.
“We’ve had a good season with some great individual and team performances which has resulted in recognition for some of the players. We will all be working hard to be in the next squad.
“I’ll be delighted for any of the players from the club who go to the Euros but of course it hurts knowing Scotland won’t be there.
“These players have a place in the Euros to push for and that can only be good for the club. We’ve got seven games to go in our season and everyone will be working hard to do well for their club and push themselves for more international recognition.”
