Callum Paterson has stressed his commitment to Scotland as his full international debut moves closer.
The 21-year-old Hearts defender, who was born in London, is also eligible for South Africa through his grandfather and Zimbabwe through his mother.
One report claimed South Africa were interested in fast-tracking Paterson into their Under-23 team for the Rio Olympics.
However, Paterson, who has played up to under-21 level for Scotland, is focused only on Gordon Strachan’s side after getting a call-up for the forthcoming friendly double-header against Italy and France.
The Scotland under-21 player, who revealed he is in talks with Hearts about a new contract, told Press Association Sport that he is keen to make his full Scotland debut.
“Most of my family are from South Africa or Zimbabwe so obviously it is nice to be linked with different things and read your name everywhere,” he said.
“People have tweeted me and stuff like that but nothing formal at all (from South Africa).
“England, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Scotland – but Scotland is my number one and that’s where I want to play.
“I was born in London but brought up here my whole life and have always considered myself Scottish. I am Scottish and that’s who I want to play for.
“I am excited to meet up with the squad tomorrow and get started training and see what I can do.”
Paterson has also been linked with a transfer to Bristol City, who reportedly watched him last season.
However, the former Gorgie youth player put it down to “just speculation” as contract talks with the Edinburgh club continue.
He said: “I have another year at Hearts anyway so I have that to focus on next year.
“I am looking forward to the Europa League and trying to push on in the league.
“I am currently in talks with Hearts so it is up to them what’s happening and we will see what happens in the future.
“Hearts is a massive club, they are in the Europa League and it is a good place to be and we will see what happens.”
Paterson was in the Scotland squad for the European qualifier against the Republic of Ireland and a friendly against England in 2014 but most recently a shoulder injury denied him the chance to make his debut in the friendly double-header against the Czech Republic and Denmark in March.
The Jambos defender, at Hampden Park along with Scotland female international and Glasgow City player Leanne Ross to support Tesco Bank Football Challenge National Festival, was “gutted” not to be involved but is hoping to get his chance against Italy on Sunday, May 29, or France on Saturday, June 4.
He said: “I ruptured the ligaments in my shoulder so I was out for a wee while, six or seven weeks, so unluckily I missed out but people have been watching and I am here again.
“It was one of those things you have to take in football.
“Everything is fine so hopefully I can get my chance to show what I am capable of.
“It is two of the biggest nations in world football and hopefully I can get my chance to play and impress, and get the opportunity to play against these players.”
