The Dons captain spoke with the media this week ahead of a massive double header for Scotland in the UEFA Nations League.

“We lost the game last time and when you lose games there’s going to be criticism. You have that at club football and I’ve experienced that. That’s what happens but, it’s in our hands now and it’s up to us to turn it around and these two games are massive for us.  If we can go on and win both of them then you’ll get the plaudits, so you take the good and the bad. We obviously had the game here against them (Albania) and it’ll be tougher away. Israel got beat over there so it shows it’ll be a tough game, but if we can play to our full potential, we know it’s a game we go and win. It’s a game the whole squad’s looking forward to and trying to turn things around from the last result.

“It’s brilliant (having Aberdeen players in the squad). It’s good for us being together in the squad and having each other here, but it’s good for Scotland as well having us playing week in, week out with each other and knowing everyone’s games. The whole team get on really well and since I’ve been coming away, I’ve met some top people and made new friends and it’s something that I enjoy when I come away. It’s good that the Aberdeen boys are here, and we’ll enjoy it.

“I never get my hopes up as I know how tough the squad is here and all I ever try and do is work as hard as a I can in training. I know the importance of the game so I’ll try and help out in any way I can. It’s down to the manager and it’s his decision.

“I enjoy the training and it’s different to club football. There’s different faces and different friends that you make here, and I like to come down and see all the boys as well. There’re injuries and whatever else that plays a part in call offs but for me I enjoy it and always want to be called up. I never expect it, but I always hope when I come away as I always enjoy it.”