'Unbelievable opportunity' for Doig and Barron

Scot Gemmill says Josh Doig and Connor Barron’s first senior Scotland call-up is a "positive", even though it leaves his Under-21 squad missing eight key players for their crucial Euro 2025 qualification double-header against Spain and Malta.

Sassuolo left-back Doig and Rangers midfielder Barron, both 22, were added to Steve Clarke's group this week, joining fellow U21s Max Johnston, Ben Doak and Tommy Conway, while Ibane Bowat, Lewis Fiorini and Liam Morrison are all absent through injury.

"It's definitely positive, that's why this team exists, to develop young players," said Gemmill.

"It's brilliant for the players and I view it that it shows the players have been doing well, not only for us but at their clubs as well. I definitely see it as a positive.

"It's an unbelievable opportunity for them to be involved, and now they have to go and confirm their talent. We think they've got great potential."

Gemmill's side are second in their group and in contention to qualify for a tournament for the first time since 1996.

Motherwell defender Ewan Wilson, 19, has been added to the squad before Friday's game at Tynecastle with Spain, who beat the Scots 1-0 last year.

"Spain are the top seed in our section and I would say they're probably the top team in the whole competition," Gemmill said.

"It's really exciting and it's brilliant for the players to come up against that level of opposition - it's what they need to help them keep improving."