Having helped Scotland finish a very creditable 13th at the recent world men’s team championships in Denmark, Chris Small has paid tribute to the coaching set-up and predicts a bright future for the international side. 

“I have to thank our coaches, Paul Frank and Roger Flynn, and team manager, Linda Davie, for making us feel like a team,” said the experienced 31-year-old Small, who is now based in Italy.

“Our pre tournament support was certainly better than it’s ever been and both coaches were there to provide pre-match support and knowledge with regards to the next opponent. 

“After spending one week within the Scottish set up, I now feel more patriotic than I ever have before. We practise, eat, talk and play as a team proving to be more professional than possibly every other nation. 

“This alone has helped to build a trusting relationship with every player where you can give full confidence to the advice from the coach.”

"Having played for Scotland the first time almost ten years ago, I can honestly say that we have come a long way. We have a set-up where we can now maximise the potential of every individual who comes through the system. Hopefully the next crop of young players will follow Alan (Clyne) and Stuart (Crawford) into the professional game and we can continue to progress as a nation to get back to a place near the top where we rightfully belong."

Clyne, Crawford and Small all played in the championships, while teenager Lyall Paterson was also in Denmark as the team reserve.