RICKY SBRAGIA is firm in the belief that the future is bright for Scotland after naming a host of Old Firm kids in his Under-21 squad for the friendly with Portugal.

Rangers star Lewis MacLeod and Celtic duo Stuart Findlay and Marcus Fraser have been handed their maiden call-ups.

Sbragia said: "Players like Stuart, Marcus, Lewis, Islam Feruz and Calum Paterson have done very well at Under-19 level and it is pleasing to see them taking the next step.

"I actually know most of the other players in the squad, having assisted Billy Stark on a few occasions recently, and after taking an Under-20 squad to the Netherlands earlier this year.

"It's an exciting squad. Stuart Findlay is a 1995 age group and has done very well to move through the age levels.

"Lewis MacLeod is a first-team regular for Rangers, Tony Watt is scoring goals for Celtic, and Islam Feruz is another one to watch.

"Billy selected the squad before going on to work with the senior squad.

"We have spoken in depth about the plans for this match, and it's up to me to carry on Billy's work for now."