Matt Gilks insists his allegiance was always with Scotland despite being born in Rochdale.
Keeper claims he always favoured Scots over country of his birth
Matt Gilks insists his allegiance was always with Scotland despite being born in Rochdale.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper has been given his first call-up to the national team for the forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Lithuania and Liechtenstein after starting the season as first choice for Premier League newcomers Blackpool.
The former Rochdale keeper is eligible through his grandmother from Perth, whom he claims instilled in him the Scottish spirit.
"I do (feel Scottish) to be honest," he said. "Scotland was definitely my first choice.
Massive influence
"My grandmother was born in Scotland and she was a massive influence on me growing up and within our family so I have always leaned towards Scotland, rather than England.
"I've been to Scotland a few times. I'm good friends with David Marshall and I came up to Hampden for the Macedonia game.
"The atmosphere at the game was fantastic. At half-time, the place was jumping. I was having a coffee, listening to all the singing, and just thought to be a part of it all would be amazing.
"So I'm more than grateful to be here. To be a part of it, to be called up now, it's going to be even better."
Gilks was understudy to Marshall at Norwich after leaving his hometown club in June 2007, but he failed to make an appearance for the Canaries before joining Blackpool on a free in June 2008.
After a loan spell at Shrewsbury during 2008/09, Gilks replaced Paul Rachubka as first choice last season.
Although there was talk of young Fulham keeper Robbie Stockdale being called up during England's keeper crisis, there was no mention of Gilks and he denies criticising Fabio Capello for overlooking 'smaller' clubs like Blackpool.
Gilks claimed: "I'm not disappointed that he didn't come to me at all, I'm more than happy to come to Scotland.
"England have a set-up, from the under-21s downwards, there are keepers in the system, there are players to step up to the senior level.
No divine right
"I've got no God-given right just because I'm now playing in the Premier League. I played against (David) Stockdale of Fulham on Saturday and he did extremely well. And I also think there are keepers in the Championship who have just as much reason to be called into the squad as I have.
"I'm more than happy. I'm so proud to be here. I know what it means to my family and to myself personally."
Gilks' agent informed Scotland about his availability before confirming his eligibility. Manager Craig Levein has admitted he will continue to look all over the UK for eligible players and his decision to call up Gilks has given Blackpool boss Ian Holloway some ammunition.
"He had a bit of a mickey-taking session before I came up, calling me 'McGilks' and stuff like that," Gilks added. "I think he is delighted for me to get the call - but he won't let it show."
