Hearts winger Josh McPake revealed his excitement after capping “a mad few years” with his first Scotland call-up this week.
The 25-year-old dropped into the part-time ranks with Stirling Albion in early 2024 after being released by Rangers but has managed to get his career back on track in emphatic fashion.
After shining at St Johnstone in the Championship last term, McPake continued his stunning rise with a strong start to his Hearts career this season that helped him catch the eye of new Scotland boss Sebastien Pocognoli.
“I got a text from the Scotland manager (on Monday) asking me to call him when I was free,” he said after being called up for the upcoming Nations League matches against Slovenia (twice), Switzerland and North Macedonia.
“I called him back and he told me the news. I was absolutely buzzing when I got the call. He was brilliant on the phone and I think he could tell how excited I was. I phoned my family straight away and was delighted with the news.
“I’m delighted to be involved, but I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself.
“My focus has been on doing well for Hearts. I’m still very new at the club, so it wasn’t something that was in my thoughts. I believed that if I performed well for Hearts, opportunities might come, but it wasn’t one of my main focuses.”
Reflecting on his remarkable rise, McPake said: “I wouldn’t change my journey for anything. Personally, I feel I needed those experiences to become the player I am now. There were a lot of setbacks, but going down the levels, proving myself and working my way back up taught me a lot.
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“It’s been a mad few years but I’ve loved every part of it. I don’t want to stop here. I feel I’ve still got more to give, and I’ll continue working hard to show what I can do.”
Another new face in Pocognoli’s squad is Celtic right-back Colby Donovan, who is intent on making his international debut over the coming weeks.
“I’m over the moon,” said the 20-year-old. “As a young player, it’s always a big achievement to represent your country. I can’t wait for it to come.
“There’s four games and there’s spots to be taken. We know it’s going to be tough games, so I’m just hoping I go over there and get a few minutes, or even a start would be a bonus.”
Falkirk’s Scott Bain, 34, is one of four keepers in the squad and his club boss John McGlynn believes he is the best equipped to become Pocognoli’s new number one.
“I think if the manager’s going to go and play a style of play that’s going to be building from the back, then there’s no better goalkeeper in Scotland, or who qualifies for Scotland, than Scott Bain,” said Bairns manager McGlynn.
“And he makes saves as well. So he’s the real deal for me. I’m delighted for him. He’s a great character.”
