Paul Hanlon says he is thrilled to be on the brink of winning his 21^st cap at under-21 level after being named in Scotland's squad for the forthcoming friendly against Belgium (Tuesday 14 August, kick off 7.30pm) at East End Park.

The 22-year-old defender, pictured with coach Billy Stark, says he wants to win as many Scotland under-21 caps as possible before becoming ineligible, but acknowledges he will never catch record holder, Christian Dailly, who won an extraordinary 34 caps.

Hanlon, who regularly captains the team, said: "I'm really pleased to have been selected for the squad and I'm just aiming to play as many times as I can for the under-21s.

"I always enjoy representing my country - it's a huge honour and a privilege.

"Hopefully I can help the team to win our next two qualifying games and then I can make even more appearances in the finals, but first and foremost it's all about ensuring Scotland wins."

Hanlon was named in the squad alongside 14-cap midfielder David Wotherspoon, who has enjoyed a really encouraging pre-season while the pair will come up against under-21 colleagues Stuart Arsmtrong, Gary Mackay-Steven and Johnny Russell on Sunday at Dundee United (5 August, kick off 1pm).