Club First Then Country

16 July 2013 23:08
You have to be playing for your club before you can think of playing for your country

New Motherwell signing Stephen McManus is keen to get back into the international squad, nearly three years on since he last won a cap. The centre-back last played for Scotland in a 3-2 defeat to Spain at Hampden Park in October 2010 but is keen to return to the fold and add to his 26 caps. McManus is hoping that having worked with current Scotland manager Gordon Strachan in the past will work in his favour as he knows the ins and outs of the defender's game.

Stephen McManus looking forward to playing for Scotland again. (s) Billy White | SportPix.org.uk

He said: "I'm lucky enough I have got a decent relationship with Gordon Strachan but first and foremost you need to play well with your club. Obviously I still have aspirations to play for my country but you need to be playing well week in, week out and that's what I'll be trying to do. I have always said I'll never retire from international football. The only reason I will not be in squads is if the manager doesn't pick me, it will not be from my own doing."However, McManus' focus has to be on getting ready for the new season with Motherwell having been won over by the welcoming atmosphere at the club. McManus said: "I had a couple of days at Hibs, which was great, they were really good as well and there are some lovely people over there. But when I came in here I had a fair idea I was going to come here, even though it has probably been the hardest decision I've had to make. But I feel as if I have made the right one and I'm looking forward to playing some games."

Source: ScottishFitba

Source: FOOTYMAD