Hearts defender John Souttar earned his first Scotland cap in three years last night, making a joyous occasion with the opening goal. 

It was the 25-year-old's first-ever international goal, in what has been a mightily impressive calendar year from the defender.

The Scots went on to win 2-0 against a Denmark side who finished as semi-finalists in Euro 2020 when they were edged out in extra-time by England. 

Souttar, who has been linked with a move to Stoke City in January, has been part of a mean defence at Hearts this season, with only Celtic conceding fewer goals in the Scottish Premiership. 

 

 

The links surrounding a potential move to Stoke have intensified over the last week, following an injury to the Championship club's star centre-back, Harry Souttar, the 25-year-old's younger brother. 

After last night's clash, Harry Souttar took to Twitter to share his brother's goal with the caption: "Incredible ❤️"

In the absence of his younger brother, the 25-year-old would be an excellent addition at the Bet 365 Stadium.

Harry Souttar will be a big miss, as he has made an excellent start to the new Championship campaign, and was deservingly attracting tiger-level interest. 

The Potters still have strong options in defence, with Ben Wilmot and Leo Ostigard playing big parts already this season, whilst the more experienced duo of James Chester and Danny Batth are also Championship-quality options. 

The arrival of John Souttar would be a good signing for The Potters but given the options they currently possess, they are not in desperate need of adding defensive reinforcements.