Gaffer gives go-ahead

13.08.2013

Gary Locke has given his blessing for Hearts' young stars to take international football by storm this evening.

The Jambos have had an unprecedented six players called up to the Scotland U21 squad for their match with England tonight, while two are part of the Scotland U19 squad for a match against Northern Ireland, also this evening.

Jack Hamilton, Brad McKay, Kevin McHattie, Jason Holt, Jamie Walker, David Smith, Adam King and Jordan McGhee will all hope to be involved with their respective age groups tonight. Despite a first team match on the near horizon against Partick Thistle, the manager has revealed he couldn't say no to the boys' dream of pulling on the dark blue jersey.

Gary said: "It's fantastic the recognition the club's got for its young players with Scotland. It's great. We've six away with Scotland U21s, two away with Scotland U19s and three away with Scotland U16s.

"It's left me with about four players to train! It's not ideal with a big game on Friday night against Partick but at the end of the day I would never stand in the boys' way of playing for their country.

"It's something they dream about as kids and it's something I was really proud of doing with Scotland U21s. I'm sure these boys are the same and some of them will be getting their first caps so I'm delighted for them.

"I wish them all the best but I'm just hoping none of them come back with any injuries."

Hearts World