PHIL Bardsley has assured the Tartan Army he is “100 per cent committed” to Scotland after switching allegiance and earning his first call-up to the national team.
The Sunderland rightback, 25, jetted to Prague for Friday’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Czech Republic with the rest of the squad yesterday.
Bardsley was born in England but qualifies through his Glaswegian father.
At Glasgow Airport yesterday he said: “I was asked last year what the situation was and I said I would be willing to come up if someone called me.
“The manager has done that and I’m 100 per cent committed and looking forward to the challenge.
‘‘Over the last couple of years, I’ve been asked the question and I’ve just been waiting for someone to pick up the phone and ask me on a personal basis.
“I’m delighted to be here, although I think it was a surprise to a few of the players when I turned up for breakfast this morning.”
Asked if he feels Scottish, he smiled: “Absolutely. 100 per cent. I’m proud and my father and my family will be proud.
“They will be delighted that I’m here and part of this campaign.”
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