Winger Luke Gambin has only made three appearances for Malta but his impact has been such that he’s already regarded as a key player for the national team.

While the 23-year-old is justifiably pleased that he’s living up to expectations, he is happy to share all the praise coming his way with his international team-mates.

“The national team is not about individuals,” Gambin said.

“Coming into the team, the first game was a bit difficult but I got to know the players.

“I was accepted and that was the most important thing for me.”

Gambin is relishing the prospect of helping Malta obtain a creditable result against Scotland but brushed off suggestions that this game means more to him, given that he has lived all his life in England.

“That would be brilliant and that is hopefully what I will do,” Gambin said of his involvement in today’s qualifier. “It will be a great experience if I step out on the pitch. If not, I will still support the team.”

Asked if today’s qualifier felt like a derby for him, Gambin replied: “Not at all.”

The Barnet FC winger said the Malta players are approaching the game in high spirits.

“All I can say is that the manager has instructed us well about Scotland,” Gambin told reporters.

“We’re going into the game in confident mood and we’re looking forward to it.

“It’s going to be a good experience for all the players.”

Having spent all his career in English football, Gambin’s tempo is probably higher than that of his international team-mates but he has been impressed with the level of the Maltese players.

“I’m very impressed,” Gambin said.

“As the coach said, there are good young players coming through and also good experienced players.

“It’s good to be part of this team.”