Shinnie seeking successful Scotland debut

Graeme Shinnie aims to take to his Scotland debut as confidently as his first games at Hampden as he bids for a playing return to the national stadium.

Shinnie excelled as Inverness beat Celtic in the William Hill Scottish Cup semi-final in April, setting up David Raven's winner from his left-back role.

And he ended his Caley Thistle career in Mount Florida by lifting the trophy following victory over Falkirk.

Shinnie's year has gone from strength to strength with a move to Aberdeen and a strong start to the season which sees them top the Premiership despite recent defeats.

And the 24-year-old now aims for another major step forward as he vies for a place in the Scotland team to play Poland in Thursday's crucial European Championship qualifier following his first call-up.

Shinnie said: "I've had some good results down at Hampden. Last season was the first time I'd played down there so I'm hoping Thursday will be the best result I've had down there so far.''

Shinnie, who can also play in midfield, was one of 12 players who trained on Monday morning as others sat out for recovery and treatment.

And manager Gordon Strachan immediately tried to welcome him into the group.

"He's said to me just settle in with the boys and get a feel for around the place,'' Shinnie said.

"I feel like I've done that already. Training was good this morning.

"Meeting the players has been great so it's just all about fitting in just now, double session tomorrow in training and then the hard work starts.''

The versatile player added: "It's a proud moment in my career. There's been a bit of talk about it before and I guess that gave me the incentive to go and try and push for this.

"It's here I need to work hard in training and prove my worth.

"Everybody has got a chance. We're down here for a reason like some of the players before if you work hard in training and impress the manager then there is no reason why not.

"There are players who have been chucked in at the deep end so that gives me hope.

"That's my mindframe anyway - try and work as hard as I can in training and impress the manager.''