DAVID JOHNSON is in line for a baptism of fire after opting for Scotland as his international country.

The Jamaican-born former Shakers striker can look forward to a place on the bench at the very least for the European Championship play-off tussle with England at Hampden Park on Saturday November 13.

Ipswich hitman Johnson opted for Scotland after making his first-ever visit North of the Border in midweek to take in the Rangers v PSV Eindhoven European Champions League game at Ibrox.

Johnson, who has a British as well as Jamaican passport, could have chosen any one of FIVE countries as his international side. The Kingston-born former Manchester United forward has already played for Jamaica and England B. He was also in the Wales squad for the recent game against Switzerland, but didn't feature in the game because of injury. Northern Ireland also approached him. Johnson's step-up to the international stage will be welcome news for Bury FC. They get a percentage of any transfer fee if the 23-year-old is sold and he has been linked with a move up to the Premiership recently.

Explaining his decision, Johnson said: "I came up to watch the Rangers v PSV Eindhoven game because I wanted to sample the atmosphere of a big game up here before I made my decision.

"I was given a great reception and the passion of the Scottish supporters during the match was an exceptional experience.

"Questions have been asked because I've got no obvious links with Scotland whether I can show the same passion as a footballer born and bred up here.

"At Ibrox I saw a Rangers team made up of mainly foreign players who all gave 100 per cent. I don't see why it should be any different for me at international level.

"I have no hesitation in accepting the invitation to play for Scotland. If I get the chance to play I will do so with passion and pride and, hopefully, I will do what I do best - score goals - for Scotland."

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