McLean cancels holiday for Under-21 chance

ST MIRREN’s Kenny McLean was so keen to make an impact with Scotland Under-21s he cancelled a holiday with his girlfriend.

McLean was nominated for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award and made his under-21 debut in a friendly against Italy at Easter Road.

Now the midfielder could take his competitive bow for Billy Stark’s side in tomorrow’s vital European Championship qualifier in Bulgaria.

McLean said: “I didn’t know there was a game this week, so I am actually meant to be on holiday right now in Marmaris in Turkey with my girlfriend, Brogan. She wasn’t happy with that but went with one of her pals instead.

“This is the first squad I’ve been in for the competitive matches so it’s good to be involved. Hopefully, if I get a chance I can take it and stay in future squads.”

If they win, Scotland’s youngsters will go top of Group 10, for at least 24 hours before the Netherlands play in Luxembourg, and McLean added: “That would put us in a strong position and then we’ll look to stay there.”