Findlay in MLS bid to increase call-up chances
STUART Finlay admits he is hoping his switch to MLS will boost his Scotland prospects – not hamper them.
The defender completed his move to Philadelphia Union last Thursday for an undisclosed free, signing an initial two-year deal.
Findlay’s first priority is to become a regular in Jim Curtin’s side when the new campaign begins next month.
However, the 25-year-old is also desperate to build on the solitary cap he has after making a scoring debut in the October 2019 victory over San Marino.
And Findlay reckons fellow countryman Johnny Russell, who is starring for Sporting Kansas City, is proof that playing further afield will not damage his international aims.
Findlay, who has also joined compatriots Lewis Morgan, who is currently at Inter Miami, and Danny Wilson of Colorado Rapids, stateside, said: “I’ve had a few disgruntled supporters of other clubs saying I might have ruined my Scotland chances by gong out here but you look at the players who have played out there.
“Lewis Morgan is flying out there and Johnny Russell has picked up many Scotland caps playing out there, so it shows you there is a platform out there to play and grow.
“What I did at Kilmarnock with getting my Scotland cap, that was a really proud moment and I don’t think by any means I’m hindering my chances by going out here.
“I think if you do well it
could help elevate my level and a Scotland thing is always a dream that I want to continue and get an extra couple of caps to add to the one I’ve got.”
Findlay, meanwhile, admits words of encouragement from former Hearts forward Sam Nicholson also convinced him to make the life-changing move.
Nicholson spent three years in America with Minnesota and Colorado before returning to the UK with Bristol Rovers last summer.
Former Celtic and Newcastle United centre-half Findlay added: “It’s something not a lot of people get to do but I’ve spoken to a few guys, my old Newcastle coach.
“I spoke to Sam Nicholson, who I’m good friends with, and both of them said it’s a regret you’ll have for life if you don’t take this opportunity on.
“I’ve played five seasons now in the Premiership, I know the players inside out, I know the stadiums inside out, I know everything there is to know about this league.”