GMS targets Scots place with old Tannadice pals
ABERDEEN’S Gary Mackay-Steven has watched four of his former Dundee United pals push their way into the Scotland set-up and now wants to join them. The winger, who is arguably in the best form of his career, says breaking into Alex McLeish’s squad and teaming up with former Tannadice mates Andrew Robertson, John Souttar, Stuart Armstrong and Johnny Russell is in his sights. Mackay-Steven, 28, has grown in confidence as a first-pick for the Reds. But it has been almost five years since his first and only taste of the Scotland scene.
HOT ON SCOTT
He said: “My focus is really on Aberdeen just now. I am not looking too far ahead but all players want to represent their country.
“But it’s great my former team-mates from our Dundee United days are doing so well. I’m delighted for them. “They have all taken different paths but it is great to see each and every one of them performing at a high level.” Left-back Robertson, a star performer at Liverpool and now the Scotland skipper, is arguably the best player in his position in English BY FRANK GILFEATHER football while Armstrong is looking to kick on at Southampton following his £7million move from Celtic.
Defender Souttar is a central figure in the rise of Hearts this season while Russell now operates in the MLS with Sporting Kansas City.
Mackay-Steven said: “It is certainly no surprise the boys are playing at a high level and for the national team. I knew the talent ASTON VILLA boss Steve Bruce has revealed he’s still interested in Aberdeen stopper Scott McKenna.
Villa had an approach to take centre-half McKenna on loan with a view to signing him on a permanent basis for £7million rejected by the Dons on deadline day.
Bruce said: “Yes it is true. He is someone we have had a look at, Scott. But there are two or three other players in Scotland who we have been looking at as well. We will see what develops.” they had. It is no surprise to see them playing for Scotland.”
Mackay-Steven was part of a deal that took him and Armstrong to Celtic and he is delighted the playmaker has fitted in quickly down south.
He said: “He will do well there. Southampton will be a good club for Stuart.
“They like to play football and he will suit their style a lot. It is great. I am happy for him. He has done well and deserves everything
he gets.”