Scotland call in Hearts defender Callum Paterson as cover

Hearts defender Callum Paterson has been drafted into the Scotland squad ahead of Friday's European Championship qualifier against Republic of Ireland at Celtic Park.

The 20-year-old uncapped right back was brought in by Gordon Strachan after Phil Bardsley – who had been handed an international recall when Alan Hutton injured an ankle – was taken off after nine minutes of Stoke City's win at Tottenham on Sunday with a groin complaint which leaves him a serious doubt.

Johnny Russell got the call to replace Derby team-mate Craig Bryson on Sunday night after the former Kilmarnock midfielder pulled out with a hip injury.

The uncapped 24-year-old has scored four goals in his last four games, including a brace in a 5-0 win over Wolves on Saturday.

Scotland assistant manager Mark McGhee said: “As I sit here now I haven’t been told for certain that Phil isn’t coming.

“Callum Paterson is here.

“The funny thing is I do have a bit to do with Johnny. I watched him last week at Brentford and that point we were looking at people for the squad and they lost 2-1 of course and it wasn’t the best game.

“It wasn’t convincing so we were swaying a bit and then at the weekend he did enough to convince us that he should be part of it so it is a great boost for him.

“If you heard his interviews and how keen he was to be here – that is one of the messages he wants from players.”