James Forrest says he is ready to play anywhere for Scotland if it means securing a place in Steve Clarke’s squad for the European Championships in Germany.
Forrest has been in sensational form since his reintroduction to the Celtic team over the past couple of months, prompting calls for the 32-year-old to be drafted into Clarke’s 26-man roster for the tournament, which he will announce on Wednesday.
The system that Clarke adopts with Scotland is notable for its absence of wingers, but Forrest says he is ready to put in a shift for his country wherever he is asked to, and says he would be willing to slot into the problem right wing-back area left vacant by injuries to Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson.
“A few folk have mentioned it but I haven’t spoken to anyone,” Forrest said.
“Even a couple of months ago, my name wouldn’t have been spoken about. But it’s a positive that it’s maybe a debate now.
“I haven’t booked any holidays. You always wait to the last minute as a footballer anyway because of cup finals and stuff.
“Do I fancy the wing-back shift? Aye, we’ll see. You’d play anywhere for Scotland. Steve Clarke has done really well, getting to the Euros twice and the boys have been exceptional.
“We will see if I get involved or not.”
On the domestic front, Forrest’s impact has been unquestionable for Celtic of late, with captain Callum McGregor even crediting the winger with their upturn in form that saw them clinch the title this week.
Forrest is now only behind the legendary Bobby Lennox in terms of medals won with Celtic, and he admits that this one has been up there with his best triumphs after spending so long on the bench -and even in the stand - this season.
“Winning the league was great but to do it with that performance at Kilmarnock made it even better,” he said.
“All the league titles I’ve won have been different, but this has been really unique. It’s been a long season, there has been lots of stuff on and off the park happening, but it makes it better in a way.
“People always say the next one is the best one. Personally, it’s been up and down but we have had a strong finish and it’s always great to win a title.
“I was in squads up until Christmas, but the January/February period was tough because I wasn’t getting in, even though I was fit. It makes the last few months better that I have managed to come in and help the team.
“We have been playing well and we look strong and confident. I have played a part, as a forward player and as an older, more experienced Celtic player.
“I got my chance when we had suspensions and injuries and I wanted to make an impact. I felt I did that, but it’s a team effort. It’s collective.
“It’s the staff and players who push it, even the guys who aren’t playing as well.”
