Liam Bridcutt Scotland call-up was ‘surreal’

Published on 20/03/2013 01:36

AFTER being named in a Scotland squad for the first time, Liam Bridcutt described his call-up as “surreal”.

The 23-year-old Brighton midfielder was thrilled as he joined his new team-mates this week after being included in manager Gordon Strachan’s first competitive squad ahead of the World Cup qualifying matches against Wales on Friday and Serbia next Tuesday.

“As soon as I spoke to the boss I just couldn’t wait to meet him and the lads,” he said. “It’s a bit surreal to be honest. To be involved in World Cup qualifiers is massive and a great stepping stone in my career that I’m looking forward to.”

Bridcutt, a product of Chelsea’s youth system, joined Brighton in August 2010, helped them win promotion to the Championship in his first campaign and was their Player of the Season last year.

Though born in Reading, he qualifies to play for Scotland through his Edinburgh-born grandfather.

“I got a phone-call a couple of weeks ago asking if I’d be interested in playing for Scotland and to check I was eligible to represent them,” he added. “Playing international football is a brilliant opportunity for me. I want to progress as much as I can in my career and this gives me a great chance to do that.”