Neilson backs goalscorer Paterson to shine for Scots at Wembley

Robbie Neilson reckons Callum Paterson could prove to be one of Scotland's main attacking threats against England after watching the defender salvage a point for Hearts against St Johnstone.

The 22-year-old further cemented his reputation as one of the biggest aerial threats in the SPFL with a towering late header to rescue a 2-2 draw.

It was Paterson's sixth goal of the season and ensures he will be heading to Wembley on a high on Friday, when he is likely to line up at right-back in the mouth-watering World Cup qualifier against the Auld Enemy.

Hearts boss Neilson lauded: I would definitely be putting Callum in against England.

If we get a set-play at Wembley he's the man you want in there. Believe me, no matter who you are playing against he'll score goals.

Hopefully he plays. It's up to Gordon Strachan, but he has played well the last two games. So I don't see why he wouldn't be in it. Callum hasn't got me a ticket, so I'll be watching it on TV!

Callum is our main threat at the moment. He gives us goals at set-plays and in open play as well - he's a big threat.

But overall, we just need to get into our stride striking-wise and in terms of scoring goals.''

Meanwhile, St Johnstone boss Tommy Wright has lavished praise on Danny Swanson after the St Johnstone star shone on his return to Tynecastle.

The 29-year-old, who endured a forgettable six months with the Jambos last season, turned in a man-of-the-match display in Gorgie and netted a deserved equaliser just before the break to cancel out Prince Buaben's opener.

Chris Kane then struck to give the Saints the lead after 86 minutes - only for Paterson's dramatic intervention to ensure a share of the spoils.

It takes Swanson's tally for the season to 10 - his most prolific campaign - as he continues to enjoy a resurgence at McDiarmid Park.

Danny's goal, if you didn't look at the colour of the shirts - people wouldn't think it was a St Johnstone goal,'' said Wright.

There is some great passing, great movement and a brilliant pass through by Steven MacLean for Danny.

Danny is a quality player who can lift the game, find space and make things happen. He enjoys that role.

People might say him and Macca can't play together but they can.

He is enjoying his football and is in top form.''