Scotland assistant coach Terry Butcher today welcomed the prospect of Republic of Ireland underage international James McCarthy defecting to Scotland. The Hamilton midfielder has come up through the ranks with Ireland having initially been capped at under-17 level in January 2007.

McCarthy was born in Scotland but qualifies for Ireland as his grandfather was born in Co Donegal. He has been included in the Ireland under-21 squad for next week's friendly international against Lithuania.

Reports over the weekend claimed Scottish Football Association officials  have held initial talks with the club and player about him switching allegiance to the country of his birth.

Under Fifa rules, a player can switch allegiances up until they turn 21 providing they haven't already won a full cap.

"Scotland are interested in taking on board any quality player and he certainly is a quality player," said Butcher.  "He's had a great season so far and a great career so far, albeit a short one.

"We are looking at players who are probably more of a senior level, players like Kris Commons and James Morrison, who are established. "But, if you can get ahead of the game and get players on board at an early stage, I'm all for that.

"Aiden McGeady was one that was missed before but hopefully McCarthy won't be. It's down to the player at the end of the day, he has the ultimate choice.

"It's nice when you have a lot of countries chasing you but hopefully he will turn out for Scotland and hopefully that will mean being part of a squad who is playing well, winning matches, and qualifying for tournaments."

McCarthy signed a new three-year deal with Hamilton in the summer and scouts from Celtic, Chelsea and Liverpool are monitoring his progress.