EXCLUSIVE: Jack McBean won't rule out Scotland call-up
LA Galaxy star humbled to be considered
By ANDREW SOUTHWICK
HE lines up next to David Beckham and Robbie Keane, and if Craig Levein gets his way he'll one day be lining up at Hampden.
Jack McBean is used to seeing his celebrity team-mates at LA Galaxy making the headlines, however in June he himself saw his name splashed across the Scottish papers.
Craig Levein admitted he wanted the teenage sensation to play for Scotland, and suddenly the 16-year-old was being asked to pledge his allegiance to one side of the Atlantic.
McBean though, who recently represented the USA at the U17's World Cup in Mexico, told The Away End he is just gobsmacked to even be considered so early in his career.
"Obviously it's an honour to even be on the radar of a national team's manager like that," he said. "I'm very surprised, humbled and honoured to even be mentioned or thought about.
"I don't think I could say which one I would rather play for because I have yet to play in anything with Scotland.
"I mostly watch the English Premiership, but I watch Scottish football whenever I can. The level is obviously very high and I think both the Scottish Premier League and Major League Soccer are very physical leagues.
"My dad was born and raised in Scotland but my mom is from the States. I have many aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents in Scotland as well.
"I would have to say my dad's passion for the game was passed down to me. I love watching the game with him and I especially love playing it."
McBean became LA Galaxy's youngest ever signing in April, and is rising to stardom in a league that is rapidly improving, with Irish hitman Robbie Keane now the latest big name to join him in the USA.
With money talking louder than ever in football, and even the UEFA Champions League having a tired look to it, is there a chance more talent will move away from Europe?
"That's a good question," continues McBean.
"I think we will just have to see, but as of now I think the MLS is developing in the right way and the big foreign players that come over to play only increase its popularity and level.
"The coaches over here are really trying to improve on their development, and I think they are well on their way and doing the right things in order for the kids to have a bright future."
