- Rangers’ Findlay Curtis earns first Scotland call-up after impressive loan spell at Kilmarnock.
- Strong recent performances and versatility praised by pundits and fans.
- Teenager determined to make impact and secure future squad place.
Despite being sent out on loan to Kilmarnock in the January transfer window, Rangers winger Findlay Curtis’ has earned his first international call up for Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad.
The 19-year-old academy graduate has started the last six matches for Neil McCann’s Rugby Park side.
He has helped Killie move clear of bottom-side Livingston and played a key role in their recent win over Premiership leaders Hearts.
Findlay Curtis is a Killie favourite
Kilmarnock podcaster Laurie Finlayson praised his performance against the Jambos.
He has also improved his flexibility, operating in various positions for the Ayrshire side since his arrival.
He’s been primarily used as a winger, but there have been a few occasions where he’s deputised at wing-back,” revealed Finlayson.
“He’s stronger on the flanks as he can be caught out defensively. He gives us a great out ball and gets supporters excited.”
These performances have seen him rewarded with his first Scotland selection for upcoming friendlies with Japan and the Ivory Coast.
Finlayson feels it is well deserved after his recent outings.
I think he’s been deserved, sometimes Steve Clarke can get accused of not looking at the younger players,” he said.
“But Finlay Curtis is one of Scotland’s top prospects, and I think he deserves his call-up.”
Ready to make an impact
Curtis himself has spoken of his pride following his selection and explained how much he’d been enjoying the experience so far.
“It’s been tough but brilliant,” he said. “All the boys have been great with me so far.
“It was brilliant out on the [training] pitch and I’m just looking forward to the next ten days.”
Curtis also made clear his ambition was not just to make up the numbers, but to make an impact.
He said: “You need to come here and make a statement that’s what I’m here to do.”
He also revealed the messaging from Scotland boss Clarke, and what he expects from the teenager.
“Just be yourself and be confident in your ability,” he explained.
He has received clear instruction to play without fear, something Curtis believes he showed in his first session.
Read Rangers analysis
While Danny Rohl’s side may be missing out on his ability short-term, in the long-run they will be welcoming back a much stronger and experienced player than the one who departed in the winter.
