Scotland call-up 'definitely an ambition' for Dundee striker Simon Murray

In-form Dundee striker Simon Murray has revealed a maiden international call-up for Scotland is 'definitely an ambition' he has in mind.

33-year-old Murray is currently the second top goalscorer in the Scottish Premiership this term having struck 15 goals in 33 appearances for the Dark Blues, one fewer than Celtic's Daizen Maeda at the top of the standings.

Since the beginning of last season, no Scottish Premiership player has struck more than Murray's total of 31 league goals, with growing suggestions the Dundonian is worthy of consideration for selection by Scotland manager Steve Clarke.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Murray said:

It's definitely an ambition. From a young age I think any football player wants to represent their country. It's obviously something that would be unbelievable.

A late bloomer in professional football, Murray was signed by Arbroath from the junior ranks as a 22-year-old in 2014.

Just one season at the Red Lichties was enough to convince Dundee United to make a move for the Scotsman, who notched 25 goals in 75 appearances in all competitions for the Tannadice club.

Murray has since represented a plethora of Scottish clubs including Hibernian, Queen's Park, Ross County and his boyhood team Dundee.

A striker with raw pace and unrelenting work rate, Murray could add a freshness to Scotland's attacking options.

"It's a tough squad to get into but at the same time I could probably add something, I just need to keep doing what I'm doing," Murray said.

With Dundee currently 11th in the Scottish Premiership table and in danger of being relegated to the Championship, Murray will have plenty to play for as the domestic season reaches its conclusion.

Scotland's next internationals will see Steve Clarke's side take on Iceland and Liechtenstein in friendly matches scheduled to take place in early June.

James Wilson

• Scotland Men's Football Team
• Scottish Football
• Scottish Premiership
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