Steven Gerrard tells Rangers defender Nathan Patterson to bide his time after Scotland national squad omission

Right-back Patterson has made an impressive start to his senior Rangers career having stepped into the void created by James Tavernier’s injury.

Clarke explained that the current squad has come too early for the 19-year-old, who also faces an SFA disciplinary hearing next week after attending a party and breaching Covid regulations.

But his club manager has told the teenager his time will come on the international stage.

"Nathan is certainly a name that we discussed," Gerrard said. "Steve will obviously be really sensible, like we will, in terms of managing Nathan. He's got a really bright future with a lot of potential.

"But at the same time we've got to think about the big picture with Nathan. He's doing extremely well.

"He's still really raw and needs a lot of work. We're obviously both aware of that - but at some point I've got every confidence he will become part of that (Scotland) set-up.

"But certainly, from Steve's point of view and my point of view, there's no rush on that.

"I'm sure Steve is watching him extremely close. Nathan has had a good, strong few weeks in terms of announcing himself at this level. He's obviously got a big four or five days coming up, the kid.

"So we will give him every support he needs. He's doing a good job. The future is extremely bright for the kid."

Jon McLaughlin and Ryan Jack were both included in the Scotland squad to face Austria, Israel and the Faroe Islands, but Jack’s involvement is subject to his return from injury which is being treated cautiously by Rangers’ medical team.

Gerrard confirmed the midfielder will miss the Europa League last 16 second leg with Slavia Prague at Ibrox on Thursday, adding: "I had a chat with Steve Clarke and obviously that will remain private. Ryan won't be involved tomorrow night. We will make a decision on the weekend when we need to."

Get a year of unlimited access to all The Scotsman's sport coverage without the need for a full subscription. Expert analysis of the biggest games, exclusive interviews, live blogs, transfer news and 70 per cent fewer ads on Scotsman.com - all for less than £1 a week. Subscribe to us today