TARTAN Army conscript John McGinlay was demob happy today - as he rejoined the Scotland team instead!

McGinlay was only a face in the crowd for Scotland's three games at Euro 96 in England after being axed from manager Craig Brown's plans.

But in Tallinn tonight he lands a World Cup mission against minnows Estonia after a year's international exile.

The Wanderers' goal star went back to 'being a supporter again' at Euro 96, although Brown did give him tickets for the matches against Holland, England and Switzerland.

Now it is payback time as he wins his tenth cap looking to improve a scoring record of three in nine appearances.

"Craig always said he would pick players in form so I didn't quite give up hope after being left out for Euro 96," said McGinlay.

"But missing out on it was the biggest disappointment of my life along with Bolton being relegated.

"You were envious watching the games, of course, but now I am just happy to be here and have another chance. It is the biggest honour you could have to play for your country."

McGinlay's actions speak louder than mere statements. He left behind pregnant wife Lee last Thursday, his first daughter Amie-Lee was born 24 hours later, and way back in 1982 he went to the World Cup in Spain as a fan.

At 32, his chances of appearing in France in 1998 might seem slim but McGinlay said: "I suppose it is up to me to keep fit and play well.

"Ally McCoist has carried on doing it and he's older than me so he is the benchmark and I'll try and do what he does."

McGinlay will play in a three-pronged attack alongside Billy Dodds and Darren Jackson as Scotland take aim to complete a World Cup double whammy on their group rivals.

Victory over lowly Estonia would give Brown's shadow squad maximum points from their Baltic double-header.

And it would set up a potentially crucial Ibrox meeting with section favourites Sweden on Sunday, November 10.

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