Craig Gordon admits he is gutted to be missing out on another Scotland cap but says it's a big chance for the likes of Zander Clark to get the nod in his absence.
The Hearts skipper is out for the season following a horror leg break in the Christmas Eve clash with Dundee United. He's started his rehab process with the aim to be back playing next season with deputy Clark filling the void left by the veteran keeper. Robbie Neilson's No2 has stepped up and produced some big performances and saves as he continues to find his feet game by game in the capital.
Steve Clarke faces a huge decision next month with games against Cyprus and Spain kicking off the Euro qualifying campaign with Gordon out injured and David Marshall retired from international duty. It opens the door for the likes of Clark, Liam Kelly and Jon McLaughlin to land the chance of international action and caps.
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Speaking to Edinburgh Evening News, Gordon said: “From a personal point of view, I had to check out of the season and look at my own situation: When I was going to get back and what I was going to do to achieve that. But I don’t feel like anyone is letting the team down. I knew Zander would go in there and do well.
“It’s been no surprise he has gone in and made some saves that have been important for the team. He’s put himself in a good position. There are not too many Scottish goalkeepers who are playing week in, week out. So for him to be able to do that now is good. He has been in the [Scotland] squad before so the manager knows what he can do. I think it will be an interesting time to see what happens there.
“I am disappointed from my own point of view not to go and get another cap. For the guys who are fighting for the jersey, it is there for them to grasp and get the nod for the next game.”
He continued: “He’s [Zander] played in European football with St Johnstone, which is a step up, so he has tasted different levels of football in his career. He has played a lot of games now, he’s 30 years old, he knows the game.
“It is a step up and I am sure for whoever is called upon it will be a big moment in their career. That excitement and adrenaline is always a good thing going into a big game like that.”
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