Josh McPake is a Scotland inspiration for next generation as his mentor names problem winger has 'overcome'

McPake seeks his second Scotland cap against North Macedonia as Robertson closes in on Kenny Dalglish's record 102 appearances.

Josh McPake is hoping to earn his second Scotland cap when the national team hosts North Macedonia on Friday night. The Hearts winger's rise has impressed former St Johnstone manager Craig Levein, who signed him from Stirling Albion after McPake had been released by Rangers and struggled through several loan spells.

Levein drew parallels between McPake's journey and that of Scotland captain Andy Robertson, who will tonight equal Sir Kenny Dalglish's record of 102 international appearances. Both players overcame early setbacks — Robertson was released by Celtic before rebuilding at Queen's Park and Dundee United, while McPake lost confidence after failing to establish himself at Rangers.

"Like Andy Robertson, it's actually a really good message for young players who hit the brick wall early on in their career," Levein said. "These guys just kept going." Levein credited McPake's turnaround to a shift in mindset, noting that at Stirling Albion the winger had "lost a bit of belief in himself" despite possessing excellent technical ability.

Since joining Hearts, McPake has flourished and earned his place in the Scotland squad under new manager Sebastien Pocognoli.