Wolves striker Chris Iwelumo is closing in on a Scotland debut at the age of 30 – having reminded his club boss what he loves about the game.

Iwelumo’s call-up has undoubtedly been one of the happiest side-effects of Wolves table-topping start to the season.

Boss Mick McCarthy is keeping his fingers crossed the Wolves target man gets the nod from manager George Burley.

The Molineux boss said: “I hope he plays, of course I do. He’s in line to pick up his first cap at the age of 30 and it was just so refreshing to see his reaction.

“It was like a kid on Christmas day. We were on the golf day, so I sent him a text and then met up with him. He was so enthusiastic about it all.”

“He was thrilled about it then and has been thrilled ever since. Isn’t that wonderful? For me it just re-affirmed what it is we all love about football.”

The former Republic of Ireland boss believes Iwelumo need not be a one-cap wonder.

He said: “I certainly don’t think he would let anyone down at international level if he played – far from it.

“I think he’d be a real handful for any defence given the form he’s been in so far. It would be great for us in giving him some match time after his suspension.

“He’s been a revelation since coming in but it’s been a two way process. I think the way we play has helped him and brought the best out of him.”

Iwelumo is being tipped to take over from injured ex-Wolves man Kenny Miller. He is loving his involvement.

He said: “I’m glad to be here but I want to be involved. It’s a massive game and these are games all players want to play. We all know what the game means We all want to go to the World Cup. It’s do or die.

“It’s a good bunch, we want to work for each other, play for each other and win for each other. It means a lot to all Scots.

“Because of the international break, usually I would go away with the missus and watch it abroad or in a little bar somewhere.

“It’s overwhelming that I’m here. I’m positive and I just want to be part of it.”