Devlin delighted with call-up

Last updated : 04 October 2002 By Brian Cartlidge
Brummie-born Devlin has been included in Berti Vogts' Scotland squad for the Euro 2004 qualifier in Iceland on 12th October on the basis that his father was born in Coatbridge, Nr. Glasgow.

The Blues winger told the BBC: "This means so much to me and I am over the moon to get my first call from Scotland. I am thrilled to bits.

"I spoke to Mr Vogts yesterday. He asked me if I was interested in playing for Scotland - and I had no second thoughts.

"It is something I always dreamed of. It is a proud day for all my family, but especially my dad."

"I also cannot thank Steve Bruce enough for what he has done for me in my career and he is a major reason for what has just happened to me," said Devlin.

"I played under him at Sheffield United, then he gave me the chance to come back to Birmingham City and then he stuck me straight back into the first team after I had completed the suspension at the start of the season.

"I have to say that I have been pleased with how it as gone so far and I hope I can play some part in helping Scotland.

"I know Scotland have come in for a bit of criticism and they have had a poor run of results, but I hope I can help to turn things around if selected.

"I have played against a few of the guys down the years, but I don't really know any of them personally, so it will be a bit strange at first."

Vogts has admitted to never having seen Devlin play but was impressed by reports from his scouts and what he had seen of him on television.

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