A GOAL-DEN girl who dreams of being a top footballer was over the moon after her hero sent her a personal message of support.

Eight-year-old Eilidh McMillan of Gourock, who plays for Morton in the Community, recently spoke on film about her idol, Everton and Scotland striker Claire Emslie.

The post on Twitter was drawn to star Claire's attention and the international ace kindly sent the youngster a hand-written letter with lots of advice - along with a signed Scotland strip as a gift.

Now Eilidh is more determined that ever before to follow in her footsteps.

Moorfoot Primary pupil Eilidh said: "I was so happy when Claire sent me the letter and the top.

"I love football and I want to be like Claire - I think she is the best player.

"I want to thank her so much."

In her lovely letter to Eilidh, the English Premier League player Claire passed on some top tips.

In her personally-penned message Claire wrote: "Never give up, don't stop trying to achieve what you want.

"Be a good person, attitude and how you treat people makes a difference.

"Help others and be kind."

Eilidh recently went to her first Scotland Women's international match where she saw Emslie's magic for the first time.

The youngster's dad Murray, a lifelong Morton fan, said: "I think it's great that Eilidh has someone to look up to.

"She was asked to say something about why she loves playing football and she mentioned Claire Emslie on the Morton Twitter.

"It was a lovely thing for Claire to send such a nice letter and it meant so much to Eilidh.

"I am very proud to see Eilidh play football."

Eilidh, who has a little sister Niamh, also loves going to watch the Ton play with her dad, and Murray and wife Alyson are busy taking Eilidh back and forward to training to pursue her dream.