Conso Keen For Scots Start

Last updated : 26 March 2008 By Stand Free Ed

ABERDEEN defender Andy Considine is set to start in Scotland's UEFA Under-21 Championship qualifier against Finland.

And the youngster, who has matured greatly this season, is looking to stake his claim for a regular place in the Under-21s at his home ground tonight.

Conso, who has two Under-21 caps, said: "It would be good to play in front of my home fans, but whether or not I'm picked on Wednesday I think we have a strong enough squad to win the game.

"I feel like I have been given a fair chance so far on the international stage, but hopefully I can start playing more regularly at this level.

"My confidence is high at the moment as I've been playing regularly for Aberdeen. I feel like I've learned a lot this season, especially from playing in the UEFA Cup and reaching the last 32 of the tournament."

Considine starred in the Dons defence last week as they survived an onslaught from Celtic after defensive partner Zander Diamond was removed from play by Jam Vinegar of Helsinki's elbows in the Scottish Cup quarter final.

The 20-year-old stepped up to the plate and was instrumental in nullifying Celtic's attack and leaving goalkeeper Derek Soutar with little to do in the 1-0 victory at Celtic Park.

Now the Dons defender is looking to impress new Scotland gaffer George Burley, and he believes the promotion of Christophe Berra to the senior Scotland squad shows that Burley is keeping an eye on emerging talent.

"Everyone wants to move into the full squad one day," said Considine.

"I look up to the likes of Christophe Berra, as I do all the other players who have moved on and gained full international honours.

"The most important thing is to play well when you get the chance at this level. Hopefully that will be enough to impress the national team manager."