Capital gain for Burley as Fletch to join Berra for Croatia clash

CAPITAL Scotland recruits Christophe Berra and Steven Fletcher will both make their international debuts this evening in the friendly with Croatia at Hampden Park.

Hibs top scorer Fletcher had already been told by new Scotland boss George Burley that he would earn his first cap but Berra will also feature for the full Scotland side for the first time. Berra's assured performances in the Hearts defence this season prompted recognition from national coach George Burley, who has been similarly impressed by Fletcher's 14 goals across the city.

Berra said today: "I'd love to start the game and it would be a very proud moment. I've just got to do what I'm good at when I get the chance. I know I've got the talent and the attributes and I'm still very young for a centre-back. I'll make mistakes but I'm going to learn from them and hopefully keep moving forward."

Stephen Frail, Hearts' interim manager, is encouraging the centre-back to maximise the opportunity at his disposal. Burley opted to rest David Weir, the veteran Rangers centre-back, for this evening's match in order to blood new defensive talent, and Frail senses a chance for Berra to stake a claim to partner Celtic's Stephen McManus long-term.

"It's a good opportunity, especially with Christophe being left sided. There seems to be a wee opening there and it's a new start for Scotland under a new manager. It would be great for Christophe to be part of the new set-up from the beginning," said Frail, who will attend this evening's match.

"I've got no fears over him whatsoever. The boy deserves it because he's worked for it. I'm looking forward to heading through and seeing him in action.

"I wasn't surprised by his call-up because I know how well he's been playing. I think it's well deserved and I'm delighted for him.

"Giving him the Hearts captaincy might have helped bring him on but I'm sure his performances alone would have got him there. Maybe taking that extra bit of responsibility on to his shoulders has impressed George Burley but he's performed every week for us. His hard work is being rewarded but he won't rest on that. He's always striving to make himself a better player and a better athlete."