International breaks used to be an anxious time for Ryan Gauld. He’d be standing by his phone in case of a potential call-up, wondering if he’d done enough to impress.
Then invariably asking himself why it hadn’t happened. But not now. When Steve Clarke names his next Scotland squad for a friendly against Turkey in November, Gauld will probably have a bag packed. But not for a return to his homeland. Instead, it’ll be for a trip to Vancouver Island, Montreal or Calgary on a sight-seeing mission or well-earned holiday.
Gauld hasn’t given up on representing his country again but, at 26, is now philosophical about his chances. Of course, there’s still a burning desire to pull on that dark blue shirt again. But before it felt like the be-all-and-end-all to get international recognition while playing abroad. Not now. Gauld has been outstanding for Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS this season. He’s the guy team-mates and fans rely on for inspiration.
