‘Matter Of Time’ For Rangers Star On International Scene Feels Ex-Striker | OneFootball

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Former Scotland international Andy Walker is of the opinion that Rangers‘ new boy James Penrice is a player for the future and believes that it is only a matter of time before he gets a call-up from Scotland team.

The 27-year-old left-back came through the academy system of Partick Thistle and after one season with Hearts, he moved to Greece to join AEK Athens.

Rangers were keen to bring Penrice back to Scotland this summer and Celtic were linked with him too, but their interest in him did not go beyond an enquiry.

Ultimately Rangers managed to strike a loan deal with AEK Athens with an option to buy Penrice in the summer in the event the left-back manages to impress.

Penrice has started every single game since his arrival at the club and earned praise from journalist Tom English following his performance against Celtic in the Scottish League Cup quarter final.

The 27-year-old earned praise from Derek McInnes recently for providing a helping hand in midfield, but despite his recent form, he did not receive his debut call-up from new Scotland boss Sebastien Pocognoli.

Walker pointed out that Penrice proved that he can handle the pressure and expectations of representing a big club and is of the view that if the Gers star keeps performing like he is now, it is a matter of time before he receives a call-up from Pocognoli

He also believes that with Kieran Tierney withdrawn from the national team due to an injury, Penrice might receive a call-up before Scotland’s game against Slovenia at home on 6th October.

“I think if he keeps up this form, I think it is only a matter of time”, Walker said on the Go Radio Football Show (35:30).

“Especially with Kieran Tierney pulling out of the squad and who knows, he might still get a call-up before the last game on 6th October.

“He is certainly one for the future and I think we all saw how good a player he has been over the last number of years.

“It is always interesting to see how a player like that can develop.

“Obviously at a bigger club, the expectation is much higher and he seems to be really comfortable in that role.”

For Rangers boss McInnes, Penrice being out of the Scotland squad may not be all negatives as it ensures the left-back will be fresh and raring to go when club football returns.

Scotland are set to face Slovenia in their Nations League fixture on Saturday away from home before they take on Switzerland on Tuesday.

They then head to North Macedonia before welcoming Slovenia to Hampden.