Eck’s stirring words to new Scots recruits

PETER GRANT has revealed how Alex McLeish delivered a rousing address to his new wave of Scotland recruits and urged them to seize the chance to become Euro 2020 heroes.

McLeish and his assistant Grant

oversaw their first training session at Oriam yesterday as the national squad began the build up to Friday evening’s friendly against Costa Rica. They did so without Hibs midfielder Dylan McGeouch — who has withdrawn through injury — but there are still six fresh call-ups within a youthful pool. Those players were left in no doubt that reaching Scotland’s first tournament since France ’98 has to be the target for the coming two years when McLeish spoke at the team hotel on Sunday. ‘It was important for the players to know what they are representing,’ said No2 Grant. ‘Alex told them that we are here to try to achieve qualification. ‘He has been close before as Scotland boss (in the Euro 2008 qualifiers) and he admits it’s the most hurt he’s been. ‘Alex hit the bar the last time but now he wants the ball in the back of the net. ‘The fans have been dying to get to a tournament for years but these players maybe don’t even realise it, they are so young. ‘We came so close the last time and the players carry the burden now. They are new, young and they should be excited by the opportunity they have. ‘The meeting lasted 15 minutes. It was short and to the point. He told them that this is the reason they are here and they had the first chance at it. It’s their opportunity and they need to grab it. ‘They are here not because senior guys are being rested, but because they deserve a chance. If they come in and do the business, they will stay. ‘Somebody is going to do it for Scotland and, hopefully, it’s going to be this time.’ McGeouch had been a doubt after missing Hibs’ 1-1 draw with St Johnstone last Friday because of a groin strain. He joins Kieran Tierney and Russell Martin in missing out, with Celtic defender Jack Hendry added to the squad on Sunday. That confirmed there would be no place for Hearts captain Christophe Berra, who has expressed his disappointment at being overlooked. Grant, though, said: ‘Alex thinks it is important that these young guys get a feel of the group. ‘They may not handle it. But he thinks it is important that they get a chance to see if they can play in this arena. ‘Christophe has proven he can do that, so the door is definitely not shut.’