Ryan Gauld: Scotland call-up goal after agreeing new Vancouver contract

Ryan Gauld has become a key player for Vancouver since his move in 2021

Scottish midfielder Ryan Gauld says he has not given up on his hopes of playing for Scotland after agreeing a lucrative new deal with Major League Soccer side Vancouver Whitecaps.

The 28-year-old, who joined the Canadian side three years ago, has signed a four-year extension to his contract as one of the club's three designated players.

Last season he was voted the club's player of the year, registering 11 goals and 12 assists for the Whitecaps to help guide them into the play-offs.

"It's one of the main goals for any player, to play for their national side," Gauld said from the Whitecaps' pre-season training camp in Spain.

Gauld has yet to feature for the national team, despite 11 under-21 caps, and has only once been called up to the national squad - 10 years ago.

He joined the Canadian side from Portuguese outfit Farense, having originally moved from Dundee United to Sporting Lisbon - aged just 18 - for £3m.

The new contract extension falls under the MLS' 'Beckham Rule', which allows club's to sign designated players outside the league's salary cap in order to attract top names.

"It was just before Christmas that we spoke about it for the first time," he said.

"Once talks started it didn't take long to come to an agreement. We've had some success on the pitch but I've got a lot more to achieve in Vancouver."