Buddies play their part in Scots squad

May 8 2009 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

ST MIRREN manager Gus MacPherson believes evergreen right-back Jack Ross will treasure his long-awaited international call-up.

Ross, 32, and Saints team-mate Scott Cuthbert, 21, each played for one half during the Scotland B team’s 3-0 victory over Northern Ireland at Broadwood on Wednesday night.

Goals from Andy Webster, George Boyd and Leigh Griffiths gave the Scots a well-deserved victory, with both Ross and Cuthbert playing their part in helping the home side to keep a clean sheet.

And MacPherson believes Ross, above, and Cuthbert’s displays in a black and white jersey this season mean they fully merited their international selection.

He said: “I’m delighted for both of them because it’s recognition of the consistent levels they have shown throughout the season.

“They have obviously not gone unnoticed by George Burley and his scouting staff.”

MacPherson revealed that he could have vetoed the national manager’s request to release the Saints duo for the B international but insisted he would not stand in the way of any player’s international ambitions.

He said: “There were call-offs and some people didn’t want to be involved but, to be fair to George, he gave us that option when he called up.

“I would never deny any player the opportunity to represent their country.

“It also gave the players a boost because it was a break from day-to-day training.

“They went in there and played 45 minutes each and thoroughly enjoyed it, so we’re delighted for them.”

MacPherson reckons seasoned professional Ross has worked extremely hard for a call-up so late in his career.

He said: “Jack has had a good career and he’s worked for everything that he’s got.

“Probably, at this stage of his career, he appreciates it even more. When I spoke to him, I got the impression he thoroughly enjoyed being part of it all.”