CALLUM Paterson last night admitted that he felt his performance at right back against Albania was poor – and revealed he would prefer to be deployed in a more advanced position for Scotland in future.
Paterson, who has been playing in attack for Cardiff City in the Premier League in England this season, was moved into defence after both Stephen O’Donnell and Kieran Tierney pulled out injured.
The former Hearts man, who featured regularly at the back for Hearts during his time at Tynecastle, helped the national team to win the Nations League match at the Noro Borici Stadium by a resounding 4-0 scoreline.
However, the 24-year-old, who won his ninth cap in the Group C1 game in Shkoder, confessed he had struggled to deal with Eros Grezda, the Rangers winger, and would like to play up front for his country going forward.
“It’s been a long time since I played right back,” he said. “It’s not my favourite position. It’s one of my least favourite positions to be honest. But I’m happy to do a job wherever I’m asked, though.
“Grezda was a handful, but you have to look after yourself. I didn’t really do that in the first 15 to 20 minutes. I got in to the game as it wore on though. There was a bit of ring rust.
It wasn’t getting chucked in at the deep end, but it’s not something I’ve done for a long time. I was happy to help the team in any way I can.
“The shape of the team looked good, but I wasn’t too pleased with my performance. It wasn’t very good to be honest.
“I wasn’t happy with my delivery. I gave away too many fouls and got the yellow card (for a foul on Grezda early on). It wasn’t really my night. But I was just glad the rest of the boys did well and got us the result.”
Paterson added: “It’s not my favourite position. I like to attack. I was a bit exposed on Satur-day night. It’s not the best for me, but I’d do whatever is asked for me for the country.
“It’s a massive thing to get called up for your country and even bigger to play. I’ll always be happy to pull on that jersey. I’ve loved being back. I hated being out in the international wilderness.
“But I’m an attacking player. I love going forward and scoring goals. I got 10 goals last year and only started playing just before Christmas.
“I’m not blowing my own trumpet, but it shows I can get in the box and cause problems. That’s me scored three goals in four games in the Premier League.
“Having said that, it’s massive for the manager to trust me and know I am capable of doing that. I had it mentioned a few times. I am a Jack of all trades, master of none. It’s not great to hear, but hopefully I can nail down a place in the future.
“I haven’t quite done it for Cardiff yet, but I am getting there and I’d love to do it for Scotland as well. But I know when it comes to international football it’s sometimes a case of needs must.”
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