LEWIS IS A FUTURE SCOTLAND SKIPPER

Considine is impressed by old pal's leadership as he shines for country and in Serie A

- BY SCOTT BURNS

LEWIS FERGUSON has been backed to not only nail down a regular Scotland berth - but also to become a future captain.

His ex-Aberdeen teammate Andrew Considine, who earned three Scotland caps, has watched him blossom from a kid, moving from Hamilton to Pittodrie to a Serie A trophy-winning star with Bologna.

Ferguson has also catapulted himself into the international setup and, after showing a bit of patience and overcoming injury, he is now getting his chance in manager Steve Clarke's midfield.

Fergie responded by scoring his first international goal in the vital 3-1 World Cup qualifying win over Greece on Thursday.

Considine said: “Everyone was delighted to see Lewis get his first Scotland goal.

“Tt was thoroughly deserved because his performance in that team was excellent.

“The midfield competition is fierce with players playing at the very top level.

“Lewis is playing right at that top level, in Serie A. He is captain of Bologna and has won the Copa Italia.

“Lewis is also starring at that same level and has done himself no harm at all.