MATT Gilks is prepared to continue in the role of back-up goalkeeper for Scotland and Burnley – even though he would love to feature in tonight’s clash against England.

Gilks is in the Scotland squad for the friendly match against their Auld Enemy at Celtic Park and would relish an appearance in the game, should the opportunity arise.

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But the 32-year-old was an unused substitute in Scotland’s 3-2 defeat to England at Wembley 15 months ago and is realistic that he could play the same role again tonight.

David Marshall started Friday’s win over Ireland, while Craig Gordon is also in the squad and looking for his first Scotland appearance for four years on his return from long-term injury this season.

Gilks has also been understudy to Tom Heaton at Burnley this season but, although he is eager to play wherever possible, he is understanding of the situation with both club and country.

“The England game is just as big as the Ireland, even though it’s billed as a friendly,” Gilks said.

“It will be tough game. We look forward to games like this.

“It’s fantastic that it’s come round again, I went to Wembley last year and it’s going to be a good night.

“Of course I would love to play, but big Craig Gordon is back and it would be great to see him back in a Scottish shirt playing a game as well.”

Heaton’s form as Burnley’s first-choice goalkeeper has meant that Gilks has featured only once for Burnley since arriving in the summer – in the League Cup against Sheffield Wednesday.

The former Blackpool keeper admits his role as back-up has not come as a huge surprise though.

“Tom’s been fantastic, and I knew what I was coming to,” Gilks said.

“I’m more than up for the challenge but if the team plays well, that’s what it’s all about - staying in the Premier League.”

Gilks was born in Oldham and has spent his entire career in English football but has three caps for Scotland after first being called up in 2010.

He qualifies via his grandmother and says there will be no mixed emotions when he takes his place in the Scotland squad against England tonight.

“I think I’m well and truly Scottish now,” he said.

“I’ve been there enough times to class myself as Scottish, although we have a bit of banter about it in the (Burnley) changing room.

“I love going away for these games, I love being away with the lads.”

Gilks hopes that Burnley team-mate Scott Arfield will also get a Scotland call-up in the near future.

“When the squad was announced the last couple of times we were a bit surprised we didn’t see his name,” the keeper admitted.

“He gives 110 per cent and I’m sure he’s on the radar, he’s not going to go unnoticed.

“They know what he can do and if he keeps going he’ll get in.”