Scott McTominay has cemented his status as one of Europe's best midfielders with his scintillating form in Italy.
That's the opinion of Jose Mourinho, who managed the Scotland star at Manchester United and pitched him into his midfield as a bright-eyed 18-year-old.
McTominay had his doubters right throughout his time at the Premier League giants but Mourinho was always a big fan. The 28-year-old is now confounding his critics after his move to Napoli and his former mentor couldn't be happier.
With 12 goals and six assists in all competitions, the Tartan Army hero is on the brink of helping his new side to the Serie A title along with international teammate Billy Gilmour.
The now Fenerbahce boss is proud of his achievements and still refers to his former protege as "my boy".
Speaking to the Scottish FA website, Mourinho said: "When I think of Scotland, I think of my boy, Scott McTominay. For me he's one of the best midfielders in Europe. That kid is fantastic and I'm so proud of his career because I got him when he was 18 when nobody at Manchester United believed he could be the player he is.
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"And Steve Clarke, of course, was a fantastic assistant when I was in my first period at Chelsea.
"I'm 100% Portuguese but if I had to give one per cent to another country, I would be 99% Portuguese and give 1% to Scotland because I love the culture and I love the country."
The iconic Portuguese boss was speaking after delivering a session to aspiring coaches as part of the SFA's UEFA Pro-Licence course.
Mourinho did his own B Licence with the SFA at Largs and it was here where his connection with this country was forged.
He added: "Even around 30 years later I still feel that connection because it was an important part of my formation.
"When I remember Scotland growing up, I remember the Scotland I loved as a fan. I was following World Cups and I remember that generations of the likes of Graeme Souness and Alan Hansen.
"Then later on, I played Celtic in the UEFA Cup Final and that was the match that put my heart-rate at the highest it had ever been because of the intensity, the spirit, the determination of that team. So hard, so difficult to play against. I think it's part of the Scottish culture."
