Paterson could be a hero at Wembley

THUNDERING down the right flank, putting in the tackles that can’t be missed and always, always making himself available for the ball. Impressive enough for a modern full-back. When Callum Paterson decides to attack a tempting ball in the opposition box, however, is when the Hearts defender really sets himself apart. If there is quite a leap between scoring against St Johnstone and getting one over the Auld Enemy, the same aerodynamic principles apply. England should beware the flying right-back. With Alan Hutton gone and Russell Martin barely quick enough to play centre-half, Paterson’s inclusion in the starting line-up would hardly come as a surprise; he has been an ever-present in this World Cup campaign. Scotland and Hearts team-mate Jack Hamilton can see his long-time friend — and international room-mate — hitting the English hard. ‘Everybody can see how good Callum is in the air, everybody knows about his goal threat,’ said Hamilton, with a nod to how Paterson sent opponents flying like skittles to power home a crucial equaliser in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Tynecastle. ‘He’s scored an impressive number of goals for a right-back and, of course, I hope he gets one at Wembley. ‘He is fantastic. The fact that he’s in the Scotland squad now and he’s played the last four games shows the quality he has. ‘Coming through the ranks with him at youth level, we all saw that he had something. It’s a pleasure to play alongside him. ‘He has the desire and the quality. To be honest with you, he’s got everything. He works hard on and off the park, eats the right things and does his job very well because of that dedication. ‘We do room together when we’re away with Scotland. It’s not too bad, to be fair. Good for bedtime — he talks me to sleep at night! ‘It doesn’t get much bigger than England at Wembley. But Callum is the kind of guy who thinks a game of football is a game of football. ‘That’s the best way to be. He will go and give his all and, hopefully, do well for the team.’