A YOUNG rugby union star from Thirsk is all set to make his full international debut for Scotland in the first of a series of three tests which starts tomorrow.

Jonathon Steel, aged 20, plays on the right wing for Glasgow Caledonian and the Scottish Under 21s, but has been picked to play on the left wing in tomorrow's game against the USA at Murrayfield.

Coach Ian McGeechan said he chose Jonathon for the squad after being impressed by his consistency in some difficult games with his club, who are known as the Reds.

Jonathon said: "I'm over the moon. When I found out ten days ago that I was part of the squad it was a shock, because of my age, but to be training with the established players is amazing and now I'm on the team."

He is not worried about playing on the left wing in tomorrow's game, instead of his usual position on the right. He said: "I'm not going to make a big deal out of it, I'll get out there and do what I've been doing for the Reds."

Jonathon puts his success down to the support he has had from his father, James. "My dad has always been there for me and supported me, taking me to practice and matches. He has been my inspiration."

Jonathon's parents, James and Linda, now live at Newby Wiske and are thrilled at his success, particularly since Mr Steel was born in Glasgow.

Mr Steel said: "He's still got a year left with the Under 21s, but I always knew he had it in him. It's a hell of an achievement and we will be going up to Murrayfield."

Jonathon attended Thirsk School, where he was known as a good all-round athlete who excelled at rugby. He started playing for Middlesbrough at the age of 11 and in 1997 he went to play for Harrogate Colts.

He then joined Northampton's academy, before being picked to play for Glasgow Caledonian at the end of last season. After taking on the USA tomorrow, Scotland play Australia the following Saturday and Samoa on November 18