Celtic's Karamoko Dembele, 13, makes Scotland Under-16s debut

Scotland Under-16s head coach Brian McLaughlin said 13-year-old Karamoko Dembele was 'fantastic' on his international debut.

The Celtic youngster came on as a 54th-minute substitute on Tuesday as Scotland U16s drew 2-2 with Wales in the Victory Shield.

Dembele, who first caught the eye when he played for Celtic U20s last month, showed flashes of his potential during his second-half cameo.

And McLaughlin said: "He was fantastic. You can't get everyone on the pitch, which is a pity when their families are there to watch. But there were three players making their debuts tonight and Karamoko was a part of it.

"He came on, he did well, he gave us a little bit of energy. He's very, very brave on the ball and he loved the occasion.

"Tonight just felt like the right time to bring the young man on. It was a great learning experience for him.

"I'd have no fears about playing him in our last game against Ireland on Friday. Ireland will be a different test but we have a squad of 22 and we are comfortable about using any of them. If it feels right, then they play."

Dembele is reportedly also eligible to play for both England and the Ivory Coast, and will not be tied to any nation until he makes a competitive appearance for a senior side.

"We've got a strong group of players," added McLaughlin. "They're really good together and for him to be training with these boys will be a learning [experience] for him and he'll become a better player for it."

Scotland face Republic of Ireland in their final match on Friday, knowing victory will secure the Victory Shield.

Jamie Semple scored both goals against Wales while highly-rated Rangers midfielder Billy Gilmour also featured.