Stephen Welsh has been named in the Scotland senior squad for the first time. The 26-year-old defender’s selection for Nations League games against Slovenia, Switzerland, and North Macedonia caps a remarkable 18-month rise, a period that began with a major loan at Motherwell.

Welsh was a stand-out performer during his time at Fir Park, a spell he described as brilliant. His form there led to a permanent move to Swansea City and has now culminated in this international recognition. He had been considered for a World Cup place previously but was never selected by manager Steve Clarke until now.

Askou's influence

Welsh credits former Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou for his development. "I owe a lot to Jens Berthel Askou for changing my way of playing and seeing football," he said. The defender noted that under Askou, Motherwell dominated games against Celtic and Rangers through proper detail, trust in players, and simplifying the game, despite operating with a smaller budget.

His initial reaction to the call-up was one of disbelief. "I got a text initially. I didn’t recognise the number," Welsh revealed. "At first you are not sure if it is maybe a wind-up or not." He kept the news quiet from everyone apart from his immediate family, who were delighted.

Now, with the news confirmed, his focus is clear. "I am excited to be involved and I am really aiming to try to win that first cap," Welsh stated. "Playing for your country is the biggest achievement you can have as a Scottish boy."

The call-up arrives as his former club handles a challenging period. Motherwell currently sit 9th in the Premiership with 8 points from 7 games, having lost their last three matches including a 2-1 defeat at Dundee. They face a tough task to halt that slide, with league leaders Celtic visiting Fir Park next on October 11.

Welsh’s journey from Celtic, through a key spell at Motherwell, to Swansea and now the national team serves as a blueprint for player development. His success story is a positive note for the club’s recruitment, which saw players like Elijah Just, Calum Ward, and Elliot Watt join during the summer. Fans can track the progress of the current squad as the season continues. Stephen Welsh will join the Scotland camp aiming to win his first cap in the coming international window.

More detail at Daily Record Football