Gordon insists Hearts duo are ready for Israel crunch

CRAIG GORDON has assured Steve Clarke that he and Hearts teammate Steven naismith will be ready to play their part in Scotland’s most significant fixture in 17 years.

Clarke’s men host Israel on october 8, with the winners facing either norway or Serbia for a place in next summer’s rearranged Euros.

Hearts are due to kick off their domestic campaign just two days prior when they cross swords with Inverness in the Betfred Cup — a game Gordon (pictured) and naismith would miss should they be called up.

That leaves Clarke with a dilemma over whether he should select two players yet to play a competitive match this season, regardless of their undeniable quality and experience.

However, Gordon is adamant he feels sharp after impressing during pre-season and hopes he has done enough to earn a recall.

‘I kept myself in good shape over lockdown and I’m ready to go,’ he said. ‘I feel good after a few games. I feel sharp and ready.

‘So long as I am putting in performances that are good enough to keep me getting selected at Hearts, then I give myself a chance with Scotland. I’d love to be involved but that will be the manager’s decision.’ Should Gordon get the nod, it will be the first time he has been selected since a friendly loss to Portugal in october 2018.

However, Gordon has lost none of his desire to add to his 54 caps and would love to help Scotland end their 22-year exile from a major finals.

‘You could ask any of the players and everyone would love to be part of it, especially if this is the one that finally manages to qualify,’ he said.

‘The build-up and importance of these games doesn’t come around very often for Scotland and it would be magnificent to be involved.’

That mix of competitive edge and patriotism is shared by Hearts captain naismith, who played the entire second half on Saturday as goals from Jamie Walker and Craig Halkett secured a 2-0 friendly win over Partick Thistle, which has left Gordon in no doubt that naismith could supplement Scotland’s shallow attacking pool.

‘naisy’s fitness is coming on really well,’ he added. ‘He’s been back in training and building up the minutes on the pitch. You can see the quality he has, the experience and how he is able to dictate play.

‘He is a fantastic player and, if he is fit and ready to go, then he will have a chance (to be selected).’