BILLY STARK is warning young players they can't view a first-team place at a club as a passport to a Scotland cap.

The Under-21 boss has named an inexperienced squad for the Euro qualifiers with Slovakia and Luxembourg as he looks to round off what has so far been a disappointing campaign.

Several young players have forced themselves into first teams at SPFL Premiership clubs this season and are turning out regularly now in the top flight in Scotland.

But while Stark is pleased to see some of his proteges performing at a high level, he is happy to bide his time before allowing them to cut their international teeth.

He said: "It is the case that teams are bringing young players through and it is increasing all the time. It is maybe in line with financial limitations for some clubs.

"They wouldn't play these kids if they weren't good enough. But when you bring them into the Scotland squad you have to measure them at the international level.

"In my day, there were a lot of good players who didn't get near an international squad despite playing first team football week in, week out. It was quite right.

"But I think everybody now thinks that when a young player gets into a first team they should become an international player automatically. It doesn't work like that.

"That is not me saying they are not good players. It is just a judgement that you make at that point.

"Perhaps in a year or two's time they might develop even further and get a shot then.

"But you can only pick the squads you can at any given time."