Islam Feruz 'can be Scots' top striker', says Mark Wotte

Sbragia congratulates Feruz after his hat-trick against Switzerland

Performance chief Mark Wotte has predicted that Islam Feruz can be Scotland's next goal machine after the Chelsea player's Under-19 hat-trick.

The 17-year-old was the star of the show as the young Scots beat Switzerland 4-3 at Falkirk Stadium.

It ensured that Scotland topped their European Championship qualifying group.

Fellow scorer Jo Chalmers (left) congratulates Feruz against Switzerland

"With the right mindset and guidance, Islam has the potential to become the next Scotland goalscorer," said performance director Watte.

Ricky Sbragia's young Scots needed a point to top the Group 9 table, having already won through to the elite-round qualifying stage for next summer's tournament in Lithuania following wins over Armenia and Romania earlier last week.

Switzerland had also already qualified and were twice ahead in Falkirk before two goals in the final 17 minutes from Feruz ensured a victory for the Scots.

Feruz joined Chelsea in 2011 after rejecting a professional contract with Celtic, who helped prevent his family's deportation back to their native Somalia while he was part of their youth academy.

He can play for Scotland under the school qualification rule but has previously said on Twitter that he would love to play in the Africa Cup of Nations.

However, following his hat-trick against Switzerland, Feruz told the Scottish Football Association website: "I really enjoy playing for Scotland.

"I know a lot of the players here from my time with Celtic and they know how I like to play.

"It feels brilliant to have scored three goals, but it feels especially good to have won all three of our games.

"I try to work hard for the team so we have the best chance possible of winning the game.

"I just give it my all and hope it pays off."