NESBITT TIPS NEW BOSS TO BE PERFECT AID IN RISE TO TOP

Aidan Nesbitt reckons Scot Gemmill’s unstinting belief in his ability can make him a star for Scotland’s Under-21s.

The Celtic kid is one of the country’s brightest talents and has shone under Gemmill at Under-17 and Under-19 level.

Now the pair are set to be reunited in Iceland after the new Under-21 boss called up a raft of younger players for his first match since taking over from Ricky Sbragia.

Playmaker Nesbitt, who is on loan at Morton, said: “First and foremost Scot is a top coach – he’s very good.

“He will give you points in training, which you can fit straight into your game, and they will always improve your performance. That’s brilliant for any young player.

“Also, he’s a great guy who is easy to talk to. For some of the young boys it can be hard initially when you turn up for Scotland duty.

“But Scot makes everyone feel comfortable – it’s easy to work with him. He’s played at a high level so knows what he’s talking about.

“Certainly, whenever I go away with Scotland he seems to know how to get the best out of me. The faith he’s shown in me makes me play better.

“When a guy like that believes in you, it gives you confidence.” Nesbitt admits he was stunned to get the nod for the European Championship qualifiers against Iceland and Macedonia ahead of regulars like Ryan Gauld and Jason Cummings.

Although the games are dead rubbers, the 19-year-old intends to grasp the chance in the hope of sealing a place in Gemmill’s squad for the next Euro campaign and potentially even more.

He added: “Ollie Burke and Kieran Tierney have shown it can be done – taking that step from the Under-19s straight to the Scotland first team.

“Both were born in the same year as me so that gives me great encouragement.”