Hearts in Spain: Cammy Devlin reveals World Cup dream and how Tynecastle club can help him reach Qatar

The diminutive midfielder remains uncapped after injury prevented any call-up for the World Cup play-offs earlier this month. Atkinson and Rowles both featured as Australia beat United Arab Emirates and then Peru to secure their place in the finals this winter.

Devlin, 24, spoke at Hearts’ pre-season training base in southern Spain to outline his ambitions for the next six months, stressing that consistent displays in Scotland can only help his international aspirations.

“I don't really need much of an incentive to work hard and do my best, but if you're every going to get one it's to put yourself in the frame for the World Cup,” he said. “Being out for two and a half months with my hamstring didn't help me before those play-offs.

“I obviously want to be there, that's the dream. Every kid wants to play for their country and go to a World Cup. It's kind of crazy. If I start the season well then hopefully I'll be in with a chance. The only way I'll make that possible is if I do well for Hearts.

"I'm uncapped but I believe in myself. If you count yourself out then it's never going to happen. I always work hard and believe in myself. That way you give yourself every chance. I won't look too far ahead because that might hinder how I perform. I just focus week to week on how I play for Hearts and fingers crossed that can come.”

Regular European outings with Hearts this season would further enhance his claim. “Being in Europe is unreal. I didn't even think of it when I came here. I just thought how unreal it was to come and play in Scotland,” said Devlin.

“Now we have a chance to be in the Europa League. Me and the Aussie boys have spoken about just how wild that is for us. When it's tough in pre-season like this, it just gives