SCOTLAND manager Gordon Strachan revealed how Matt Ritchie's impact on Cherries' promotion bid had persuaded him to hand the winger his first senior international call-up.

Ritchie was announced in the 26-man squad for the Tartan Army's challenge match against Northern Ireland and Euro 2016 qualifier against Gibraltar at the end of the month.

''I have watched Bournemouth a lot and Matt has been integral to their success. They are a smashing side,'' said Strachan.

''Whenever we have seen Matt he has never failed. He likes to play the way we like to play and is a good passer of the ball with determination and willingness to learn so that is good for us.

''It is not a trial basis – if you don't play well in your first international it doesn't mean to say you don't get another game – it is nothing like that. It is a longer-term picture.''