I’ve not played for Scotland in three years but I still back myself for recall

HE hasn’t played for Scotland in three years, but Declan Gallagher believes his international career is far from over.

The Dundee United defender was last called up by Steve Clarke two years ago and his last appearance came against Luxembourg in September 2021.

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But despite his two-year exile from the squad, the ex-Aberdeen, Motherwell and St Mirren centre-back reckons he could still earn a shock recall from the Scotland gaffer with his standout displays at Tannadice.

Currently on nine caps, Gallagher is chasing his tenth outing in Scotland colours at the age of 33.

He played a huge role in one of Scotland’s biggest ever games when he kept Serbia hitman Aleksandar Mitrovic quiet in THAT game in Belgrade back in November 2020.

And he hopes Scotland boss Clarke has been keeping a close eye on his performances with United so that he can help his country make more history on the international stage.

Speaking to Courier Sport, he said: “When you are having a good season, that’s what can provide the opportunity for some international recognition.

“I’m definitely still chasing that 10th cap!

“I’ll always back myself to play at that level, if given the chance.”

Jim Goodwin‘s United are sitting comfortably in fifth place in the Premiership – four points clear of St Mirren with a game in hand.

Gallagher has been a stalwart at the back for United having also been key in their Championship title-winning team last season.

But the 33-year-old admits he could be overlooked by Clarke, with his defensive partner Ross Graham potentially further up the pecking order.

The veteran believes the 23-year-old has what it takes to make an impact at international level and hopes to see him feature in the manager’s squad – as long as he still gets his tenth cap.

Gallagher said: “The big man is having a great season and, as much as I’ll be chapping on the door (for Scotland), I think he’s chapping just as loudly.

“It might not be too long before he’s picking up caps.

“Rossco has been absolutely amazing. He speaks brilliantly, is a leader and takes everything on board when you speak to him. He’s terrific.

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“Before I got here, I didn’t realise how good Ross Graham was. He’s got everything – tall, strong, fast, good on the ball – and the fact he’s a left-footed centre-back is great. You don’t get too many of those coming through in Scotland.

“He scores goals as well.

The defender added: “I’ve seen people called up for the Scotland club that maybe aren’t as deserving as what Rossco has been this season.

“I’ve told him, ‘Keep doing exactly what you are doing now’. Because he is playing out his skin, just like the whole defence is.”

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