Barry Robson throws down Scotland challenge to Aberdeen FC stars as Conference League presents Euro 2024 'opportunity'

Barry Robson wants Aberdeen’s homegrown players to use the Europa Conference League as a stage to catch the eye of Scotland manager Steve Clarke.

The Dons return to European action on Thursday night when they entertain group leaders PAOK. Robson believes it is an opportunity for the likes of Nicky Devlin and Scotland U21 caps Connor Barron and Ryan Duncan to shine. Captain Graeme Shinnie has six Scotland caps although his last came more than four years ago during Alex McLeish’s reign.

Aberdeen have guaranteed European football until Christmas and it might help some of Robson’s Scots make a push for the Euro 2024 squad. Robson said: “It is not an easy team to break into but if you are playing in Europe for us and you are Scottish then it gives you an opportunity.

"They need to perform well and if they do I know Steve Clarke is very thorough in what he does and will have eyes everywhere and on everyone. Any player who wants to get that progression, what a chance to do it when you are playing in Europe.”

The former Scotland star has heaped praised on Clarke for leading the nation to back-to-back Euro finals. He said: “First and foremost Steve Clarke has been outstanding as the Scotland manager. What he has achieved has been phenomenal.

“He looks like he has the nation behind him and the fans behind him. The whole management team and players have been outstanding for Scotland.”

Robson can’t wait for Aberdeen’s latest test in Europe and already has an extensive dossier on PAOK and their strengths and weaknesses. He will also pick up the phone to Hearts boss Stevie Naismith to see if he can get more of an inside track on the Greek side after they knocked the Jambos out in the qualifiers.

“I will maybe give Naisy a call,”