Tynecastle Teenager Motivated by UEFA Nations League Play-Off Against Greece
James Wilson arrived at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens last night, eager to kick-start what he hopes will be a long and successful international career. The young Hearts striker, eligible to represent four different nations, has made it clear that Scotland is his preferred choice. If he features in any of the upcoming Nations League play-off matches against Greece, he will become the youngest player to earn a senior cap for the country. However, patience will be key.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke is known for easing new players into the squad rather than throwing them straight into competitive action. Typically, newcomers are invited to train and observe before making their debuts later on. At just 18 years old, Wilson has limited senior football experience, suggesting he is likely to be lower in the pecking order for playing time during this crucial fixture.
His promotion to the senior squad has been rapid—bypassing the Under-21s entirely—after scoring six goals in 25 appearances for Hearts this season. Fellow 18-year-old Lennon Miller from Motherwell has also been included in the squad and may need to wait for his opportunity as well. Clarke has already indicated that tonight’s first leg in Piraeus will primarily feature seasoned and trusted players.
That said, Scotland would benefit from securing Wilson’s commitment sooner rather than later. Eligible to play for England via his mother, as well as Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland through his father’s lineage, there is always the risk of another nation swooping in. A competitive cap would ensure his allegiance remains with Scotland.
Wilson has already demonstrated his loyalty, having turned down offers from England’s Premier League, including Manchester United and Aston Villa, two years ago in favor of signing his first professional deal with Hearts. That decision has paid off, with his reputation continuing to grow. Should Scotland fail to cap him soon and he opts for another national team, it could be seen as a major oversight.
Competition for a Spot in Scotland’s Attack
Several more experienced forwards—including Torino’s Ché Adams, Aberdeen loanee Kevin Nisbet, Middlesbrough’s Tommy Conway, and Ipswich Town’s George Hirst—are ahead of Wilson in the national team hierarchy. As a result, he may not feature in Piraeus but could be in contention for a substitute appearance in Sunday’s return leg at Hampden. Even a brief cameo in either match would both boost his confidence and ensure he remains tied to Scotland.
Going forward, Wilson could alternate between the Under-21s and senior squad over the next few years, allowing him to gain valuable game time. For now, he is simply grateful for the opportunity.
“It’s surreal to think about where I am now,” he said recently. “If I had moved south at that age, I might still be playing Under-18s football. I’m really happy with where I am. Football changes so quickly—I made my Hearts debut just over a year ago, and now I’m getting called up for the national team. It’s a dream for every young player in this country, and hopefully, I’ll get my chance.”
