Oct 14 2009 Neil Cameron
Celtic kid Islam Feruz last night beat Andrew Driver to become the first player called up by Scotland under FIFA's new eligibility rule.
The 14-year-old striker, who was born in Somalia, qualifies because he holds a British passport and has been educated in one of the home nations for at least five years.
Feruz will make history when he meets up with the Scotland Under-17s next month for three European Championship qualifiers.
His family moved to Glasgow seven years ago and his skills as a player soon brought him to the attention of Celtic and now his adopted homeland.
Hearts winger Driver may well become the first player to win a full cap under FIFA's new rule if he turns his back on England and Feruz admits he is delighted to get the call-up at an early age.
The African-born goalscorer, speaking on Celtic's website, said: "Since my family and I came herewe havebeenmadewelcome.
"Scotland is a great country and is now my home and I will be proud to wear the jersey.
"I thank Celtic for all they have done for me over the past five years and Scotland coach Ross Mathie for giving me this great opportunity."
Celtic's youth coaches have had a job playing down the potential of Feruz who is considered to be the best at his age level in Scotland .
He and his new team-mates take on Cyprus at East End Park then Georgia and Portugal at Starks' Park on October 20, 22and25.
Mathie said: "I've known about Islam since his first involvement with Celtic and I've long been an admirer of his technical ability and prowess in front of goal.
"His new international team-mates will be delighted he has committed himself to Scotland."
Celtic's head of youth, Chris McCart, praised the way Feruz and his family have dealt with themoveto Scotland .
He said: "Islam is a fine example of a boy working hard to do the very best he can in achieving his goals.
"He and his family have had a difficult time in terms of leaving Somalia and coming to a new country but the fact he has settled and done so well is testament not only to his own commitment and drive but also to the magnificent welcome Scotland has given him."
SFA chief executive Gordon Smith insisted Feruz's call-up celebrated modern Scotland enjoying many cultures.
He said: "Islam is a fine example of the type of person this new rule is designed to benefit.
"The rule reflects the changes to our society in recent years and is designed to promote social inclusion in football.
"Islamis a talented boywho has worked hard. He did not move to Scotland seeking to play international football.His family made their home here for their own reasons and, having grown up here, Islam regards himself as Scottish."
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