Motherwell academy graduates and the transfer mantra that's propelled duo to brink of World Cup placement

Their football journeys have been intertwined for most of their careers - and Gordon Young reckons Motherwell academy graduates Allan Campbell and David Turnbull's inclusion with Scotland is testament to an ML1 upbringing.

The midfielders are in Steve Clarke's squad for tonight's World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine, with a final to potentially come against Wales if victory is achieved.

UEFA Nations League matches against Armenia - both home and away - and Republic of Ireland will also follow before June is done.

It's Campbell's first time in the senior side while Turnbull has four caps for his country. Both came into 'Well's academy when Young was its director, and he knew he had gems on his hands.

Turnbull - who hails from Wishaw - was eventually sold for a club-record fee to Celtic in 2020 while his former midfield partner joined Luton Town last year, helping the English Championship club into promotion play-off territory.

Ryan Jack's injury has brought about the latter's spot in Clarke's plans and Young insists it's a credit to both families and their boyhood club that navy blue contention has beckoned.

He said: "It's fantastic for the two players. They are two different types of players. One is incredibly gifted, the other is unbelievably hard-working.

"Both go hand-in-hand. As much as I am pleased for the players, I am pleased for their families. It's an opportunity for them to really benefit from the hard work they have put in.

"For them to enjoy that, I am really pleased for them. I think with five games to play, the full squad will need to be used, given the time of year it is.

"So much emphasis is put on the Nations League now so there's a massive opportunity to qualify for the next major tournament