Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says that Ryan Fraser still wants to play for Scotland. And confirmed that he'd held private talks with Steve Clarke on the winger's international future.
Fraser was left out of the Scotland squad to face Poland in a friendly game but has been notified that he will be considered for future fixtures, which includes the prospect of playing on the biggest stage of them all - at the World Cup finals, something only a minority of players get the chance to do.
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Whether Fraser still gets his opportunity remains to be seen but he lost his place, despite fine form, after pulling out of the squad back in November for an injury concern before training during Howe's first few days in charge.
When asked about Fraser, Howe said: "He's very passionate about his country. He wants to do well in every aspect of his game so I'm disappointed for him but I think he's in a good place. He's here, he's playing and he's playing very well."
Fraser was only afforded a cameo role at Chelsea due to a slight hamstring injury. It remains to be seen whether he will be risked at Everton on Thursday evening when the Magpies travel to Goodison Park.
Discussing his omission from the Scotland squad, Tartan Army boss - and former Newcastle coach - Clarke said: "There was a situation in November when Ryan didn't come with the squad but trained with his club. "Ryan has apologised for that situation.
"I had a good chat with him but I've decided not to pick him in this camp. "We've agreed that Ryan's club form will determine whether he's involved in the next camps.
