STEVE McClaren says Derby County forward Johnny Russell has delivered when handed the opportunity.
Russell has started the last six matches, having been on the bench in six of the previous seven.
He has scored three goals in the last two games to take his tally to five for the season but his general all-round performances are what have earned him praise, as well as a call-up to the Scotland squad.
McClaren has been head coach for 13 months and has not seen Russell play better in that time.
"I'm delighted for Johnny," said McClaren.
"He has not had a regular run in the side but now he has that opportunity, he has delivered.
"I think he is showing his best form in my time here.
"When I first came in I looked at him and Jamie Ward and thought 'I've got two great wide players'.
"Then Johnny got injured for a long spell and never really got a run in the team.
"Now he is in and playing well."
Competition for places is strong in most areas of the team, especially in the two wide positions.
McClaren can pick from Russell, Ward, Simon Dawkins and Jordon Ibe when he has a fully-fit squad at his disposal.
"We are very fortunate and I have always said it is a squad game," said McClaren.
"We demand a lot from our wide players. They have got to score, they have got to assist and they have got to work hard for the team.
"Johnny has most assists and he is scoring goals but the key is his work-rate and his job for the team defensively."
Derby completed a schedule of seven games in 22 days by beating Wolverhampton Wanderers 5-0 at the weekend.
Russell started six of the matches and came off the bench in the other.
"I've got myself back in the Derby team and I am scoring goals, as well as creating chances," he said.
"I feel I am playing well but that's because of how we are playing as a team.
"I don't think anyone is letting the team down."
Russell was more than happy to change his plans after receiving his late international call.
He had been planning to watch Scotland's upcoming matches against Republic of Ireland and England but could now be involved in them.
"After the game against Wolves, I had managed to sort out a few tickets to go and see the boys," he said.
"I was looking to go back to Scotland and see the family as well as the chances are somewhat rare during the season.
"However, I got a phone call from Gordon Strachan on Saturday night and he asked me if I would like to join up with the squad and I was happy to change my plans!
"I would have normally thought it was someone pulling a prank but Craig Forsyth mentioned to me that he had asked him for my number.
"It was great to get the phone call and be asked to join up with the squad. My reply was pretty instant because, as I have said before, I really want to represent my country.
"Hopefully, I can get the chance to show what I can do during the next ten days or so."
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