A Slow Rise from Part-Time Football to the Scotland Squad

James Penrice has been called up to the Scotland national team for the first time at the age of 27. The defender says the invitation is the result of a slow rise in his career. He described his experience during his loan spell at Rangers as "incredible."

Penrice scored in his first match, one day after joining Rangers. He continues to be an important player in Derek McInnes' team. He said that his decision to return to Rangers had increased his chances of a place in the national squad. Rangers signed Penrice on loan from AEK Athens, and they have an option to buy him.

AEK Athens paid 2 million pounds for the player after an impressive season at Hearts. Penrice made 32 appearances there, and the club won a new national championship. He began his career at Partick Thistle and, after loan spells at East Fife and Livingston, he moved permanently to Livingston.

Penrice said he considered leaving football when Partick Thistle were relegated to League One. He also added that he looked into courses for life after football during the Covid pandemic. He said that his move to Livingston was a major driving force in his career.

Scotland will host North Macedonia at home on 13 November. They will play their last Nations League match three days later, away to Switzerland.