FADDY: TIMETO STEPUP

JAMES McFADDEN last night insisted Scotland’s midfield men should be champing at the bit to fill Scott Brown’s shoes.

Faddy, who is set to join the national set-up as part of Alex McLeish’s coaching team, concedes Scotland’s loss will be Celtic’s gain after Brown’s call to quit the international game.

But the 34-year-old says the chance to claim Brown’s permanent place on the team-sheet is one that should drive on those at McLeish’s disposal.

He said: “Once there are doubts in his mind that playing for Scotland could mean his form suffers and physically he could feel tired, when that creeps in then maybe it is time to take the step back.

“I can totally understand why he has done it. He is going to be a huge loss because the football he has been playing in the last year-and-a-half has been excellent.

“Even as recently as the game against Zenit St Petersburg where he was outstanding.

“However, it happens. This is football, there is a cycle and now it’s up to the younger players to come in and push for a place.

“I’m sure some of those younger players will be rubbing their hands because they’d know Scott, if fit, would be the first name on the teamsheet.

“He’s not there any more and it’s a chance for them to push for a place.

“It is a strong area of the pitch and there has already been a clamour for the likes of John McGinn, Callum McGregor and Stuart Armstrong.

“There are players ready to come in and although they won’t be at the level of Scott right now it’s a chance for them.

“If that was me in that position I’d be really excited to be that guy.”