McCrorie: Playing for national team is pinnacle of a player’s career

Ross McCrorie says it is the pinnacle of any football player’s career to represent their country after he was picked as part of Steve Clarke’s provisional 28-man squad for Euro 2024.

The Bristol Rovers defender has been called up to bolster the right-back position following injuries to Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson.

Celtic’s Anthony Ralston is the only other right-back in the squad that will be cut down to 26 before they make their way to Germany.

Scotland take on the hosts in Munich in the tournament opener on June 14.

And after a “turbulent” injury hit season, the former Rangers and Aberdeen player is “honoured and excited” to play his part.

Speaking to the media about being included in the squad, he said: “It was at the back of my mind, it was obviously the start of season when I was in the squad and then it was my aim to obviously try and get into this squad but I got hit with that injury for six, seven months.

“I think for any footballer it’s the pinnacle of their career to get called up for your national team and at the end of the day to play with them as well.

“But for me after all of them turbulent months, get myself back and get myself in good nick to go again and it was just, it was an honour for me to get that call up and a real excitement.”

The versatile 26-year-old, who can play across the back line and midfield, made 19 league appearances in the English Championship this season and helped Bristol City to an 11th placed finish.

He said: “I have played right-back, right wing-back for the last two or three years now,” he said.

“For me, it’s my natural position. Since I have been at Bristol, I’ve played every game at right-back or right wing-back.”

Scotland will play Finland and Gibraltar in friendly matches before the 26-man squad is finalised.