Scotland's last appearance in the World Cup came in 1998, when the Tartan Army reached the knockout stages before elimination at the hands of Brazil.

However, Steve Clarke's side have qualified for the finals again, and are set for group stage meetings with Haiti, Morocco, and a reunion with Brazil.

Stewart, 29, last represented his country in June 2022, while he was a Sunderland player, before his big injuries - but a recall is within his sights.

The striker has two goals and two assists in his last seven Championship appearances, and he is making a difference for Saints week in, week out.

"I think to go to the World Cup and represent your country, every player that's playing to represent Scotland would be eyeing a spot," said Stewart.

Southampton's Ross Stewart during the Championship match between Southampton and Middlesbrough. (Image: Stuart Martin)

"I would be lying if I said it's not. I'm no different. But what I can say just around that is it's kind of in the back of my mind, at the moment.

"I just kind of try to focus...