Scotland star Russell aims for Wire Wembley glory

Warrington winger Matty Russell is relishing the chance to play for his country again in the Four Nations this autumn, when Scotland go up against Australia, New Zealand and England.

The Irvine-born back will also play in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley later this month when Warrington play Hull FC, an opportunity to impress that he relishing.

“It will be absolutely massive for me to play at Wembley,” said the 23-year-old.

“I’ve been there when I was a kid and I went with the team when I was coming through the ranks at Wigan, but I’ve never played there. It could be a once in a lifetime experience.”

The final will be another chance to show Scotland coach Steve McCormack what he can do on the big stage, with plenty of competition at full back and winger for the Bravehearts this year.

“There is a lot of competition at full-back and on the wing but that’s really good,” he said.

“Having good players wanting to get into the squad and players who are in really good form is excellent.

“All credit to Steve for that. I wouldn’t want to walk into any team. I never have. I want to earn my place.

“I loved my time playing for Scotland and I’m really looking forward to getting back into the squad.

“Just thinking about the players we’ll be playing against from Australia, England and New Zealand is awesome. We’ve got another game in Workington (against New Zealand) so I’m hoping my Dad’s family will come down from Dalry for that one, like they did in the World Cup when we played there.

“They came to the USA game at Salford too so hopefully they will get down to see us play at Coventry (against England, 5 October) and Hull (Australia, 28 Oct), too.”

With the 20117 World Cup drawing ever closer, Russell is also looking forward to the prospect of facing the best the international game can offer Down Under.

Scotland are set to face New Zealand in Christchurch, and Samoa and Tonga in Queensland.

“I’ve seen the fixtures and the dates and that got me excited,” he said.

“I was looking up Cairns and Christchurch online where we’re going to be playing. If I can get into the World Cup squad that would me massive for me.

“I’m not sure I’ll get the family to Christchurch, though!”