Charlie Mulgrew says he can’t bear the thought of watching Scotland 2014 World Cup qualifiers on television and aims to use the friendly against the USA to cement his place in the squad.
The Celtic defender had an excellent season, winning several personal awards as well as helping Neil Lennon’s side reclaim the SPL title.
In February he made his international debut against Slovenia and now he wants to become a permanent fixture in Craig Levein’s plans for the campaign, which starts against Serbia in September.
He told Press Association Sport: "It would be great to be involved in those games.
"I've watched a lot of them on TV and I've always been desperate to be involved.
"Hopefully I can be involved in this one and then just take it one game at a time."
Asked if he felt he had anything to prove after being overlooked for squads in the past, he said: "Not really. I'm just trying to enjoy it.
"I've always wanted to play for Scotland and I just want to do my best and hopefully I can bring something to the team.
"This is the second time I've been called up so hopefully I can play in the game and do well.
"With every trip, you are looking to do better and better and hopefully stay in the manager's plans.
"Hopefully I can do that on this trip and see what happens."
Some pundits have criticised the timing of the Florida friendly which comes at the end of the domestic season but that’s not a concern the 26-year-old shares.
He added: "Everybody is up for it. It doesn't matter when it comes around.
"To play for your national team, you've got to be ready for it and you've got to be up for it.
"There is always a sense of pride in pulling on the Scotland jersey and I'm sure all the boys feel the same and that's why everybody is here because they are all looking forward to it.
"To play for your country is a great opportunity."
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