Max Johnston admits Scotland debut would be 'something special' as he reveals what he would do with first cap strip

Max Johnston wore his dad’s old Scotland shirt to watch the Euros with his mates – now he hopes to return the favour by handing over the first of his own.

The 20-year-old has been called up for the Nations League clashes with Poland and Portugal off the back of a campaign with Sturm Graz that delivered the Double. A promotion from the Under-21s to Steve Clarke’s squad for last year’s friendly in France goes down as his only previous call-up. Now he’s hoping to take the final step this week and follow in the footsteps of dad Allan, who won 18 caps while chipping in with two goals.

Johnston, preparing for the first Scotland get-together since a gut-wrenching Euros in Germany, said: “My dad has shown me a lot of his Scotland highlights. He’s shown me the clips, the games and his strips. I was actually wearing one of his tops when I was watching the Euros with my mates in the summer.

“If I can get my first Scotland cap it would be a special moment. If I get that cap I will give my first strip to my parents, for sure.

“If we could get two wins it would be massive for the team. On a personal note it would be amazing to get on the pitch and to make my Scotland debut. It would be something special.”

Johnston had been hoping to get the nod but was none the wiser until after Clarke had named his squad just over a week ago. Fellow Under-21 talents Tommy Conway – who went to Germany – and Ben Doak – who was named before injury denied him a seat on the plane – also feature in this camp.

Johnston said: “I had been out at training when the squad was announced. My phone went into meltdown with messages. There were a few notifications with Scotland flags – that is when I realised I was in the squad.

“You are always half-hoping you are