Ex-united star delighted to end national wait

Former Dundee United forward Johnny Russell was thrilled to end a three-year wait to represent Scotland again.

The Sporting Kansas City player made his first appearance for the national side in yesterday’s 1-0 defeat by Mexico at the Azteca since winning his fourth cap as a substitute against Gibraltar in 2015.

Russell, who left Tannadice for Derby County five years ago, said: “It was amazing to pull on the Scotland top again.

“That was my first start. I’m delighted to be back in the squad and to get a start was a very proud moment.

“It is a privilege to pull that jersey on. Hopefully, that is not the last time I do it.

“I will keep working hard to be involved again in the future.

“I know there are a lot of quality players to come back into the squad but I hope I can force my way in there.”

Russell accepted Mexico were worthy winners but felt encouraged by the way Scotland contained the World Cup-bound side to a one-goal victory.

He added “It was tough as they are a quality side. The conditions were always going to be difficult.

“It was difficult to get a breath. We played well in patches.

“We can take positives from that match as we are a young side showing good signs of playing well together.

“To play in a ground with so much history was special.

“A lot of the players in the squad have not played in front of crowds like that and stadiums like that.

“Coming to places like this is why you want to play for your country.”

Lewis Morgan, meanwhile, ended a whirlwind season with an appetite for international football after winning caps against Peru and Mexico.

Although his game time was limited, new Celtic star Morgan said he is keen to stay in Mcleish’s plans.

“Of course, I got the first taste of it in Peru and I would love to have had more minutes on the park against Mexico because I am hungry for it,” said the former St Mirren midfielder.

“I can only thank the manager for giving me the opportunity to go out and play.

“From the start of the season in the Betfred Cup, to end it at an arena like the Azteca stadium has been incredible for me.

“It has been great.”

Johnny Russell is challenged by Jesus Gallardo.