Jamie McAllister insists he "never stopped believing" he would win his way back into the Scotland international set-up following his recall today - more than four years after earning his first and only cap to date.

The City left-back was named in George Burley's squad for next Saturday's home World Cup qualifier against Norway at Hampden Park. His first cap came in 2004 during a friendly win over Trinidad & Tobago.

 World TV: Jamie McAllister video exclusive

The delighted 30-year-old exclusively told Bristol City World: "It's great news and I was happy when I received the call yesterday.

"It's something I've been striving for and now it's happened, so it's up to me to take my chance.

"I never stopped believing I could get back into the national side. It's one step in the door and hopefully now I can do really well and establish myself.

"I knew they had been keeping tabs on me, but it's just nice that I'm now back in the squad."

Unfortunately for his wife Ashleigh, the couple's planned three-day trip to Paris during the international break has been cancelled.

But Jamie added: "I'll have to make it up to her! Instead of a flight to Paris, I've booked her a flight to Glasgow now. All the family have been on - they are very excited and all want tickets."

Scotland boss Burley said: "I know Jamie well from Hearts. When I was there, he was a midfield player but in the last couple of seasons he has settled in at left-back.

"He is a tremendous professional who was desperate to get into the squad. I don't call people up for nothing, everyone in the squad has a chance (of playing)."