Austria U21 v Scotland U21
International Friendly
Friday, 7 June – (kick off 6pm UK time)
Stadium Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt

Austria are the next opponents for Scotland Men's Under-21s, with the young Scots set to face them in Wiener Neustadt on Friday evening.

Scotland lost narrowly to Turkey in Istanbul on Monday evening in the first game of the friendly double header. 

There was a positive though for Scot Gemmill's side with the news that Tommy Conway - who scored the opener against Turkey - would be called up to the full squad ahead of their friendly against Finland.

Team News

Scotland already had a number of players missing during this window, with Matthew Anderson withdrawn prior to the Turkey game - adding to the list including Josh Doig, Kieron Bowie, Ibane Bowat, Lewis Neilson and Ben Doak who were not available. 

Max Johnston and Connor Barron were both left out of the squad for Monday's friendly as a precaution after reporting minor issues but they have remained with the group and could be in contention to face Austria.

As planned, Leon King joined up with the group on Tuesday and will feature, although Michael Mellon has since been forced to withdraw from the squad.

The numerous absences allowed Scot Gemmill to hand debuts to Jack Milne, Lennon Miller, David Watson and Rob Apter and all four will be hoping to win their second caps on Friday. 

Pre-match Thoughts 

Rob Apter was one of four debutants on Monday night and the forward spoke to us as he prepares to win his second cap on Friday night.

Rob, it's your first time as a part of this Under-21 group. How have you found the week so far and how did it feel to get the call? 

It was quite unexpected as I hadn't heard anything until about three weeks ago and when I heard I was made up to be honest because it's something I've been working towards.

I was going to be going on holiday but I was happy to cancel it! I've played with Liam Morrison, Adam Devine, Max Johnston and Leon King before in the Scotland youth teams so I knew a few of the lads which has made it easier. At Tranmere this season we tried to get the ball on the floor but there are some games in League Two that are long ball. You then come here and everything is on the floor and that's better for me as it's my sort of game.

You mention the loan at Tranmere from Blackpool. It was a real breakthrough season for you, scoring 13 goals, registering 6 assists and winning the League Two Young Player of the Award.

Yeah, I spent all season on loan at Tranmere and it was a good experience for me. I've learned a lot. This season has been really good for me just to play as many games as I have and I think I've done well. The rewards I've got this season has given me a bit of confidence and especially getting this call-up has given me even more.

When I got told I was nominated for that award, I didn't think it was as big a thing as it was but I then went to the EFL awards in London with my mum and dad and when we walked in we thought 'this is big!'.

I was delighted to win and I had to go on stage to receive the award but thankfully they were just asking me questions which was easier than a speech!

For those in Scotland who, perhaps, have not seen much of you, how would you describe your playing style?

I like to get at players, to attack and to be exciting on the ball, get goals and assists like I have this season. I would probably say my best position is playing off the right or as a ten when I'm a bit free.

You've registered a strong goal return this year which must give you confidence going into these games and next season?

This season has been my best season for goals - I've been trying to work hard on getting my shots on target. In the last few years I probably didn't score as many as I used to and this season I've started to hit the back of the net which has given me more confidence now. I'm back at Blackpool for pre-season and hopefully I can try to get in the team and stake my claim.

It must have been a proud moment to make your Under-21s debut on Monday.

Yeah, my dad was born in Scotland so he's always proud, it's a big thing playing international football and I'm enjoying it so far. It's something that I've been working towards. After playing with Scotland Under-19s, the next step up was the Under-21s and I was made up to play.

And finally, how did you assess your performance on Monday and what are you hoping for on Friday night?

Obviously Turkey were a good team but I think I did well when I came on. I could've scored two, the goalkeeper saved two of my shots but hopefully on another day they go in. We've got another game against Austria on Friday and hopefully I can get on the pitch again. Hopefully I can add a goal as well, that would be nice. 

How to Watch the Match

The match will be available to view live on the Scotland National Team Youtube Channel.

Scotland Men's Under-21 Squad 

Adam Devine Rangers (on loan to Motherwell)
Adedire Mebude KVC Westerlo (on loan to Bristol City)
Azeem Abdulai Swansea City
Cieran Slicker Ipswich Town
Connor Barron* Aberdeen
Connor McAvoy Fulham
David Watson Kilmarnock
Jack Milne* Aberdeen
Jack Newman Dundee United
Josh Mulligan* Dundee
Kai Fotheringham* Dundee United
Lennon Miller Motherwell
Leon King Rangers
Lewis Fiorini Manchester City (on loan to Charlton Athletic)
Liam Morrison* Bayern Munich (on from to Wigan Athletic)
Lyall Cameron* Dundee
Max Johnston* Sturm Graz
Robert Apter Blackpool (on loan to Tranmere Rovers)
Vincent Angelini Brentford