The international frame includes Chris Brady, Craig Gordon, and Angus Gunn.

Through Monday night’s Paisley drizzle, Scotland manager Steve Clarke, who was seated stooped in a beanie hat at the rear of St Mirren’s main stand, had a clear vision. He needs a dependable goalie for the two-leg Nations League play-off match against Greece in March, and one applicant stands out above the rest.

Through 120 minutes of play and a penalty shootout against St Mirren, Hearts advanced to the Scottish Cup quarterfinals thanks to Craig Gordon’s valiant efforts. He proved his mettle with saves in regular and extra time until the home club was soundly ousted by two pivotal penalty stops. Clarke would have observed Gordon’s agility, foresight, responses, focus, and experience at 42 years old.