Former Hearts striker Callum Paterson speaks on leading line for Scotland and surprise at leaving Cardiff for Sheffield Wednesday

Callum Paterson, left, hopes to lead the line for Scotland.

The former Hearts youngster, who last week made the switch from Cardiff City to Sheffield Wednesday, can be used in a variety of positions due to his versatility and he is desperate to cement his spot in the squad after coming on against Czech Republic as a substitute last month.

Paterson has been capped 12 times for Scotland and while he is happy to play for his country in any position, he feels he can lead the line for Scotland if called upon.

Paterson said: “I’m delighted to be back. It has been a while and I was out for a long time before the last squad.

“It is great to be back in the fold as this is a massive game for the country as a whole.

“It was difficult not to be involved although some of that time I was injured.

“I’m the first to admit I’m not Ronaldo but I feel I do bring certain things to the team.

“I think up front is where I am most effective.

“I can play in a lot of positions but I’m at a stage where I need to look to one position and make it my own.

“Sheffield Wednesday have signed me to play up front even though I have the number five shirt.

“I have to believe in myself that I’m capable of doing a job up there and score a few goals.

“It would also be an amazing time to score my first Scotland goal.

“I’ve had a few caps now and a few chances so it would be nice to get on the park and grab one.”

Despite playing in the English Premier League, Paterson feels representing Scotland in a major finals as the “pinnacle” of his career. With Scotland potentially two games away from next summer’s Euros, the 25-year-old senses an opportunity.

“I am a patriotic person and everything I have achieved in football is surpassed by representing my country,” said Paterson.

“For me, playing for Scotland is the pinnacle. It is the highest honour you can achieve. If I could help the country get to a major finals it would be incredible.

“I think getting there is the biggest thing, I don’t think it would mean more in the current climate as the fans have always been desperate. “

Paterson made the move to Hillsborough last week after three years in south Wales. Bluebirds manager Neil Harris deemed him surplus to requirements and Wednesday paid £500,000 for his services, with Hearts pocketing a five-figure sell-on fee.

“In a sense I was surprised but the manager thought it was time for me to move on,” added Paterson on his Cardiff move.

“Sheffield Wednesday are a massive club and I’m thankful to them.

“It just wast meant to be for me at Cardiff as my time had run out. I’ve moved on to other things.”