CALLUM Paterson has stressed his commitment to Scotland as his full international debut moves closer.

The 21-year-old Hearts defender, who was born in London, is also eligible for South Africa through his grandfather and Zimbabwe through his mother.

One report claimed South Africa were interested in fast-tracking Paterson into their Under-23 team for the Rio Olympics.

However, Paterson, who has played up to under-21 level for Scotland, is focused only on Gordon Strachan’s side after getting a call-up for the forthcoming friendly double-header against Italy and France.

The Scotland under-21 player, who revealed he is in talks with Hearts about a new contract, is keen to make his full Scotland debut.

“Most of my family are from South Africa or Zimbabwe so obviously it is nice to be linked with different things and read your name everywhere,” he said.

But Scotland is my number one and that’s where I want to play.

“I was born in London but brought up here my whole life and have always considered myself Scottish. I am Scottish and that’s who I want to play for.”