Callum Paterson has joined up with the Scotland squad ahead of this Friday’s European qualifier against the Republic of Ireland at Parkhead. Hearts defender Paterson was called up to replace the injured Phil Bardsley who lasted just nine minutes of Stoke’s Premier League win at Tottenham on Sunday before limping off the White Hart Lane pitch with a groin strain. The former Manchester United defender will also be sidelined for next week’s friendly against England. Paterson joins Derby County striker Johnny Russell who was called up by Scotland manager Gordon Strachan at the weekend after Craig Bryson was forced to pull out of the squad with a hip injury. The uncapped Russell has scored four goals in his last four games, including a brace in a 5-0 win over Wolves on Saturday.
Scotland assistant manager Mark McGhee said: "As I sit here now I haven't been told for certain that Phil isn't coming. Callum Paterson is here. The funny thing is I do have a bit to do with Johnny. I watched him last week at Brentford and that point we were looking at people for the squad and they lost 2-1 of course and it wasn't the best game. It wasn't convincing so we were swaying a bit and then at the weekend he did enough to convince us that he should be part of it so it is a great boost for him. If you heard his interviews and how keen he was to be here - that is one of the messages he wants from players."