Tyler Fletcher’s dreams came true this week when he received a late call up to the Scottish World Cup squad following the injury to Billy Gilmour.
Just a week ago, Fletcher got a call up to the squad for the final game before the tournament begins, with manager Steve Clarke describing it as “a very positive experience for the players” to “get an insight into what we look for in the senior squad environment”.
Having started his international youth career with England, Fletcher made the switch to Scotland and has since played for them at every level from U-16 to U-21. He made his debut for the first team in their 4-1 win over Curacao last weekend.
Speaking to the Scottish FA, Fletcher reflected on what the last week has been like for him.
It’s been a crazy week! I didn’t really expect it but I am just taking it in my stride and loving every minute of it so far. In the changing room, after I found out Billy [Gilmour] got injured and I was obviously gutted for him.
The manager come up to me and said ‘I might not be the last time I see you on this trip’. I was a bit like: ‘Wow’. Then, the next morning, I got a call saying do you want to go to the World Cup. I was speechless and obviously said yes! I’ve got nothing with me, I’ve got nothing in my suitcase. I’ve got no boots, I am getting my boots sent over today actually.
It was in the back of my head that if I go and make an impression. I could go and make it into the first team and be around it. But to go to the World Cup a week after training is something I never thought of it or could of dreamed of.
I knew Scott [McTominay] from United, he has helped me a lot. Kenny McLean has been top with me a – really top guy. One of the best players I have ever trained with, he is so good, all of them are and it is a great team to be around.
