A GOAL-DEN boy from Inverclyde Academy is hoping to shine when he makes his debut for Scotland tonight.

Gavin Watt stood out during three tough trials competing for a place against the very best in his age group.

The 16-year-old, who has come through the ranks at Morton has won a place in the national under-18s squad and is busy gearing up for his first match, against Northern Ireland in the Centenary Shield.

Defender Gavin hopes to make his biggest fans, his family, proud when he pulls on the Scotland shirt.

Gavin, from Barrs Cottage, said: “I am really excited about it and very proud to be representing Scotland.

“I was one of the youngest players to make the team so that feels like a big achievement. 

“I have been training with the team at Toryglen.

“It helps that I knew a few of the boys but you do feel nervous at first.

“It is a real step up.”

Modest Gavin has quietly worked hard to earn international recognition.

He said: “I keep myself to myself. I just keep working hard, I train and play three or four times a week.”

Gavin was all set to play on his home ground of Cappielow in the schoolboys international.

But the game has been switched to Renfrew at the last minute following the bad weather.

He will be cheered on by his mum Yvonne, dad Thomas, sister Jenna and brother Gary.

He said: “My mum and dad aren’t big football fans, it’s my sister and brother who are the football fans.

“My brother Gary played football and I have always looked up to him.”

Gavin has been learning the tricks of the trade with Morton for four years after scouts spotted his potential while he was playing for Broomhill Boys’ Club.

He said: “I am hoping to do enough to get a professional contract with Morton.

“That is my ambition, all I want to do is play football.”

After playing Northern Ireland Gavin will travel to face England in York later in the month and then meet the Republic of Ireland in Dublin.