Derby winger Pearson not giving up on Scotland recall

Derby County winger Stephen Pearson is determined to play his way back into the Scotland setup.

Ex-Motherwell and Celtic man Pearson is focusing on keeping his place in the Rams first team and, he says, anything which comes after that is a bonus.

Almost two-and-a-half years have past since Pearson won the last of his 10 caps for his country but he insists his focus is only on playing well for his club.

"I wasn't really disappointed to be left out. I take it as it comes. If it comes, great, if it doesn't, I'll try to keep doing well for Derby," Pearson told the Daily Record.

"If I'm not playing well for Derby, I won't get any recognition. First of all, it is about staying fit and playing well for Derby. Whatever else happens is a bonus.

"It's been stop-start for me since I signed. I've played five or six games and then missed a couple, so to play 20-odd games is good and I'm feeling stronger fitness-wise. I think it's as good as I've felt for Derby.

"I'm training every day and playing games every week. I'm keeping myself fit and keeping myself in the best shape possible. I feel better in myself and physically stronger for getting a run of games.

"I've been unfortunate with injuries but hopefully I've put that behind me now. I'm feeling injury-free, which is good, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season. Hopefully, I'll stay fit to the end of the season."