Kristi Montgomery hoping to build on ‘surreal’ Scotland Under-21s debut

Scotland Under-21s newcomer Kristi Montgomery described a “surreal moment” after making his international debut in defeat to the Czech Republic on Friday.

The Blackburn midfielder made his bow as a half-time substitute during the 2-0 loss in Uherske Hradiste, having received a first call-up to the under-20 squad for their game against Slovakia in May.

With the home side leading 1-0 from the first half, the 21-year-old was unfortunate to concede a penalty in the 71st minute, which – after being taken three times with goalkeeper Ruairidh Adams deemed to have twice advanced early off his line – ultimately sealed defeat.

Scott Gemmill’s side will be looking to get their European Championship qualifying campaign going at the second attempt when Portugal visit Fir Park on Tuesday and Montgomery is eager for more involvement following a disappointing result in the opening game.

“Obviously it was a surreal moment,” he said. “It’s something every player dreams of. It was a tough game against good opponents and I felt we could’ve done more, but we need to build on that in tomorrow’s game.

“It was unfortunate to give away a penalty as I hardly touched him and he’s bought it well.

“Then we had the bizarre penalty situation in which Ruairidh was really unfortunate.”

It has been a surprise elevation to the international ranks for Montgomery, who was born in Leeds to a Scottish mother.

He made his first-team debut for Blackburn in April in a 2-2 draw with Sheffield Wednesday, going on to make two further Championship appearances last season.

His initiation in England’s second tier heralded the step-up with Scotland, a call which he said took him unawares.

“It’s been good. It’s a great group of lads here,” he said. “When I first got the call in May to join the under-20s I was actually on a sunbed on holiday in Mallorca and I knew it was a great opportunity so I came straight away.

“I know a few of the players from playing against them in England and some from playing at Scotland Under-16s, so that’s helped. I was in the Victory Shield squad that we won a couple of years ago.

“From this squad, Tsoanelo Letsosa (of Partick Thistle), Dire Mebude (Westerlo), Jeremiah Mullen (Dunfermline) and Matthew Anderson (Kortrijk) were all there so that’s made it easier to settle.”

On Friday’s test against Portugal, he said: “It’s another great opportunity from the lads and we’re all ready for it. International football is a bit more tactical than club level and it’s tournament football so every game matters.

“Obviously we’re up against a very good opponent, but the main thing is focusing on us and trying to get the three points.”