DANNY WILSON, the Rangers defender, hopes his return to the club will help him re-establish himself in the Scotland squad in years to come.
Wilson has made five appearances for his country but has not played for the national side since a substitute appearance in the 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic four years ago.
The 23-year-old became the first signing of the summer at Rangers last month as he agreed a three-year deal with Mark Warburton's side and he could be handed the captain's armband for the upcoming season. Wilson has brushed off criticism directed at him from various quarters following his return to Ibrox and will now look to play an integral part in Rangers' bid for the Championship title this season.
Wilson burst onto the scene with Rangers six years ago before making the move to Liverpool and subsequently returning north of the border to lead Hearts to the Premiership last term. He faces a tough task to break into Gordon Strachan's squad in the immediate future but he is determined to set his sights high in the game.
"There was a lot of hype built up back then and people will maybe say I've not reached those heights that were expected," Wilson said. "It's not something I look back on and think, 'God, I'm really struggling here'. I'm happy with where I am just now. Obviously I will be happier if we get promotion and back up challenging in the Premiership, With that hopefully I can get back in the national team.
"Looking back, I was probably thrust in a bit early. Not many 18-year-olds make their debut and are part of the squad. I was fortunate to do that, but now I have taken that wee step back. I've not been involved with the national team for a long time but it just makes me hungrier to get back. I appreciate it is going to take time. It might take us getting back up and competing in the Premiership."
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