Don’t put Ryan out in Gauld
Johnny Russell is stunned that Scotland boss Steve Clarke hasn’t handed Ryan Gauld a Scotland cap.
Russell and Gauld played together at Dundee United and now they’re both starring in the MLS.
They came up against each other last month and although Russell scored for Sporting KC, Gauld’s Vancouver Whitecaps came out on top 2-1.
There has been a clamour for the former Sporting Lisbon playmaker to get a call-up from Clarke – but it hasn’t happened.
And Russell, who has 14 caps already for his country, believes Gauld deserves the recognition.
He said: “I can’t believe Ryan’s not had a Scotland call-up yet. I was hoping he’d be in this one because he deserves it.
“Everyone back home is crying out for him to be involved and he should be because he’s quality.
“Scotland has a lot of top midfielders, I’ve played and trained with them. But
Gauldy would fit in there no bother.
“We’ve so many good boys in there now who thrive off each other but he’d fit in easily.
“I’m so full of admiration for Gauldy and what he’s done. When he went to Portugal at a young age, I was buzzing for him because I wanted to play abroad too.
“He was out there a long time and did really well, especially in his last few seasons.
“He’s totally transformed Vancouver’s season. The impact he’s had, his goals and assists, has been incredible.
“When he arrived they had no hope of reaching the play- offs. But they’re almost there now, mainly because of him.
“I was telling people over here all about Gauldy. I told them he’s a proper, quality player. They’ve now seen it for themselves and he’s still young. It’s perfect for him.”