Scotland captain Darren Fletcher is confident Aston Villa youngster Barry Bannan will make the step up from club to international football. Bannan could win his first cap in tomorrow's home clash with the Faroe Islands after showing impressive form for Villa in recent weeks.

Fletcher had a first hand view of Bannan's qualities when in action for Manchester United in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Villa Park.

Fletcher said: "Is Bannan ready for Scotland? Of course he is. He is playing for Aston Villa in the Premier League and he is a very talented lad.

"He was impressive against United on Saturday and he is an intelligent footballer.

"If he gets a run of games for Villa, I am sure he will do well for himself.

"Having watched him for the Under-21s and Villa, I think he is going to have a bright future."

Fletcher added: "I watch a lot of reserve team matches and I was aware of Barry before now.

"I saw Barry him score a hat-trick against the United reserves this season so I knew what to expect."