McInnes insists Mackay-Steven would do a great job for Scots

DEREK McINNES talked up the Scotland claims of winger Gary Mackay-Steven after his superb performance at Celtic Park.

It’s five years since MackaySteven earned his only senior cap as a late substitute in a Hampden friendly against the USA.

The winger caused problems for the hosts at Parkhead yesterday and his brilliant mazy run almost gave Aberdeen a half-time lead, with Craig Gordon producing a superb save to deny him.

That continued his fine earlyseason form ahead of Alex McLeish naming his squad for next month’s Nations League group clash in Israel and home friendly against Portugal.

McInnes said: ‘I’m not here to tell Alex his job but Gary could handle the environment. Alex usually plays with wing-backs rather than wingers but Gary is someone who can make the difference in tight matches. He won’t beat his man every time but he has enough good moments to be a positive.

‘It’s important to strike the first blow here and, with Celtic not firing on all cylinders, we almost did. But I wasn’t the one who had to run 40 yards at speed and then have to execute like Gary did.

‘He had four players trailing in his wake and a six-foot plus keeper coming towards him. So there’s no blame. It was a fantastic run that epitomised his performance. I’m pleased with my team. We still end up leaving with nothing but we were very close to a result.’

Another player hoping for a Scotland call-up, Hibs winger Martin Boyle — who is also eligible for Australia — was rested for his side’s win at St Mirren yesterday due to a foot injury.