Scotland: Oliver Burke ‘not expecting’ recall for World Cup

Oli Burke insists he has given little thought to a Scotland recall for the World Cup and is simply focusing on doing well for Union Berlin in the Bundesliga.

The 28-year-old joined Union on a long-term contract in the summer and has scored four goals this season, including a hat-trick against Eintracht Frankfurt.

“I’m just focused on my football here and what happens, happens really,” Burke, who earned the last of his 13 caps in 2020, said.

“I’ve not really thought too much on it. Obviously, I know there’s a World Cup coming up, but I’ve not really been a part of it recently.

“I’m not really expecting anything. I’m just enjoying myself and enjoying football again, which is the most important thing for me.

“If I can, hopefully, do some good performances, score some more goals and hopefully that is catching the eye a little bit and gives me a chance, at least.

“Obviously, it’s an absolute honour to wear the badge and represent your country. It’s such a privilege. Obviously, I would really love that again and to have that experience again.

“I cannot think too much on that. I have to just stay focused and do the best I can here and see what happens.”

Burke is in his third spell in Germany, having made his first move to the Bundesliga in 2016, when he joined RB Leipzeg from Nottingham Forest for what was then a record fee for a Scottish player of £13m.

“I was young, the price tag, I didn’t really know too much about it,” he recalled. “I didn’t really understand it so much at that age. As I got older, it started to weigh a little bit.

“In football, everything happens quickly. You have your good moments and then there can be bad moments.

“It’s been kind of like this throughout my career. Many ups and many downs.”