'Brave decision to leave Celtic' - Scotland boss Steve Clarke on call-up for Hearts ace Craig Gordon

Scotland boss Steve Clarke has admitted it was a “brave decision” for Craig Gordon to leave Celtic in the summer.

Craig Gordon has returned to the Scotland squad under Steve Clarke. Picture: SNS

The goalkeeper returned to Hearts despite their status as a Championship side, but his performances for his boyhood club has seen a recall to the national team.

Gordon has been included in the 27-man squad for the upcoming triple header against Serbia, Slovakia and Israel.

The match against Serbia is a titanic encounter for the Scots with a place at Euro 2020 and their first tournament since France ‘98 at stake.

As well as key moments in the league and Betfred Cup, Gordon produced a man of the match performance on Saturday at Hampden Park as Hearts downed rivals Hibs to reach the Scottish Cup final. It included a stupendous save to deny Kevin Nisbet.

While Clarke wasn’t surprised by such performances, he did admit to being making such a move was a brave one for the 37-year-old.

"Craig’s a goalkeeper I’ve always liked,” he said. “Always thought he was a top-class goalkeeper.

"I thought he made a really brave decision when he chose to leave Celtic and go out there and play, going back to Hearts. The club where he started.

“It’s no surprise to me that Craig’s playing at the level he’s at. He deserves to be included in the squad."

Gordon will battle David Marshall and former Hearts goalkeeper Jon McLauglin for the gloves.

Former Celtic star Marshall is the current holder of the No.1 spot having started the last eight matches.

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