Steven Naismith admitted he was surprised to be included in the Scotland squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Russia and Belgium.
The Hearts striker was named by Steve Clarke despite only recently recovering from a second knee operation within the last year.
He has played less than 90 minutes for the Jambos since signing permanently in the summer due to injury, and thought that might count against him this time around, but he’s made the cut and is in line to earn his 50 cap.
“I was slightly surprised,” he told BBC Scotland. “I think from having a summer like that and having the op, then getting back to fitness.
“I had a good chat with the manager in the summer but I thought these games might just came that bit too quickly, but I’ll use my experience.
“That’s what I’ve done since I’ve been back but I’m glad to be there.”
Naismith has missed Hearts’ last two matches since coming off at half-time in the home draw with Ross County due to a tight hamstring.
That was more about not taking any risks than being seriously hurt however, and confirmed he’s ready to play when Hamilton visit Tynecastle on Saturday.
“It was more precautionary than anything serious,” he explained. “When you’ve had along lay-off and then you come back to full training and you’re trying to cram in a bit of fitness because you’ve missed a bit of pre-season, that’s always a risk.
“Again, you just need to use your experience to take the time and make sure you’re ready for the long haul.
“This call-up is a bit of de-javu from last season. It was touch and go then whether I’d make the squad or not. I’ve managed to get in this one, I’m back training and I’ll be involved at the weekend.
“All being well, I’ll be pushing to get some game time when we’re away.”
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