WHEN Pauline Hamill takes to the field at McDiarmid Park on Sunday, she will be the first female player to win 100 caps for Scotland.

But amid the celebrations before the friendly against Belgium, she revealed a concern that there seems to be very little chance of anyone emulating her feat - such is the lack of emerging young talent, writes Laura Montgomery.

Pauline, a mainstay of the side for 15 years, said: "I can't believe I will be achieving 100 caps. To be the first player to do so is a real honour. I have had great support from my family and I cannot thank them enough."

Pauline is one of four players in their thirties still very much an integral part of the team, but has seen few significant changes in squad personnel over the past few years.

This lack of young players coming through and making an impact is a concern for Pauline.

She said: "There does not seem to be enough young talent emerging on to the national scene. The structures and opportunities are all there and are far better now than they were when I was a youth, but for whatever reason, not enough young players have made it."

But Hamill can reflect on a long, successful career.

"Looking back, I have been very lucky to play alongside a number of great players and representatives of Scottish women's football," she added.

On Sunday, all thoughts of 100 caps will have vanished from Pauline's mind. With two crucial European qualifiers coming up against Slovakia and Denmark, the striker knows the importance of this friendly.

"Denmark are clear favourites to top our qualification group, but we still believe we can make the play-off spot. We need to win against Slovakia at the end of October, so a good performance is imperative on Sunday. As long as the performance is good and we can take confidence into the Slovakia match, that is what really matters."

Kick off is 2pm. Entry is £3 and £1 concessions.