Tynecastle Striker Makes History in UEFA Nations League Play-Off Against Greece
James Wilson is still coming to terms with the events of the past month, and it’s easy to see why. Becoming Scotland’s youngest-ever international footballer is a remarkable achievement. Despite his rapid rise, the 18-year-old Hearts striker remains composed and mature about the milestone, though he admits it hasn’t fully sunk in.
“To be honest, it still doesn’t feel real,” Wilson shares. “I’m still doing my schoolwork, so everything feels pretty normal. My mum and dad remind me now and then that I hold the record, but it hasn’t quite hit me yet.” In an interview with Edinburgh News, he reflects on his Scotland debut, his international aspirations, and why he previously played for Northern Ireland.
Wilson made history when he came off the bench during the second leg of Scotland’s UEFA Nations League play-off against Greece. At just 18 years and 17 days old, he surpassed notable figures like John Lambie, Kieran Tierney, Willie Henderson, and Denis Law. “It was an incredible experience being around players competing at the highest level in Europe. Seeing their standards in training, how they prepare for games—it was really eye-opening,” he explains.
Greece posed a tough challenge, particularly with their ability to counter quickly. “They had a young squad in the second game, which was interesting to see. You really notice how fast the game is at that level. The players are all athletic, mobile, and everything happens much quicker,” Wilson notes.
Despite being the squad’s newest face, his Scotland teammates made sure he felt welcome. “Everyone was great with me, always checking in and asking how I was enjoying it. No one in particular stood out—they all helped,” he says. Scotland manager Steve Clarke also made time for him. “Our conversations were mainly about how I was settling in. He wanted me to stretch the game and make runs in behind, which is something I can bring to the team.”
Four Nations Could Have Claimed Wilson
Wilson’s selection for Scotland was significant, given he was eligible to represent four different countries. His mother’s English heritage made him an option for England, while his father’s lineage allowed him to play for Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. Before Scotland called, he briefly played for Northern Ireland’s U17s while at the Riccarton youth academy.
“I always wanted to play for Scotland, and thankfully, I got the chance,” Wilson says. “Northern Ireland approached me first before Scotland’s U16s did, so I decided to experience it. I really enjoyed it.”
For now, Wilson has the flexibility to move between Scotland’s senior and U21 squads, with his performances for Hearts determining where he fits in. “It’s up to the coaches. My job is to perform, to play better than I did against Celtic, to earn minutes and make an impact. Whatever squad they put me in, I have to show my best.”
Despite the growing attention, Wilson remains focused on his club. “Once the March internationals were over, my focus was straight back on Hearts. My mindset is always, ‘What’s next?’”
After a 3-0 defeat to Celtic, Hearts face Dundee United at home before traveling to Motherwell in their final two games before the league split. Every point is crucial to securing a top-six finish. “We’re aiming to win both games, secure our place in the top six, and push for a European spot,” Wilson says optimistically. “It’s still possible—we just need results to go our way and do our part on the pitch.”
