Fraser’s progress no shock to Saint

First impressions last for for former Pittodrie squadmate Shaughnessy

Joe Shaughnessy knew Ryan Fraser had star quality the moment he clapped eyes on him.

And the St Johnstone defender has tracked his former Aberdeen teammate’s progress south of the border.

The Bournemouth midfielder, now 23, is set to make his Scotland debut in tonight’s clash with Canada after starring for the Cherries in the Premier League this season.

Irish centre-back Shaughnessy recalled: “Ryan came through when I was at Aberdeen and I remember the first time I saw him play.

“He was about 14 but was training with the U19s and was superb.

“Ryan was taking people on, beating men and was just brilliant. So everyone was kind of standing back thinking what a good player this guy is going to be.

“And credit to him, he’s really kicked on in his career.

“He’s always worked hard and things really took off for him when he went to England.

“I have him on my Snapchat but I’ve not spoken to him for a while – he’s moved up a level now!

“I have watched a fair bit of him on television and he’s really top class these days.

“He’s a great lad and I’ll be delighted for him if he makes his Scotland debut because he totally deserves it.”

Shaughnessy, 24, is delighted under21 international Fraser has proved the doubters wrong after rejecting the offer of a new Dons deal to try his luck in England four years ago.

He said: “A few people wondered what he was doing leaving Aberdeen at such a young age to go to Bournemouth.

“But he’s been proved totally right in making that decision.

“Obviously the coaching staff down there told him what they had planned for him and they have delivered on that.

“It is a big call to move away at a young age but he always had loads of confidence in himself and is prepared to work hard.

“He was never overly confident but Ryan always knew he could have a very good career.

“It’s great to see him take things up to the level he’s now at.”