MOTHERWELL manager Stephen Robinson has challenged rising star Allan Campbell to book his place on the plane for Scotland’s summer tour of South America by keeping up his impressive form.

The 19-year-old has been a standout in the Fir Park midfield this season, winning rave reviews for his combative and high-energy style of play.

One of his biggest admirers is Motherwell and Scotland legend James McFadden, who waxed lyrical about Campbell’s ability and application last week, so his imminent appointment to the national team's coaching staff should only help the youngster’s cause.

Robinson believes though that under-21 internationalist Campbell has what it takes to earn his first full Scotland call-up on his own merits.

“If he keeps playing the way he has been, there is no reason why he can’t,” Robinson said. “He’s been an inspiration for me.

“Allan has played against the likes of John McGinn, Scott Brown and Graham Dorrans - the better players in the league. He’s done well in every game and when he doesn’t play, we miss him.

“Allan brings a desire, drive and never-say-die attitude that is endearing for a manager. I love that.

“Previously, I also said that Allan maybe didn’t have the quality of some other players on the ball. But that’s changed. He’s improved in that sense and got better. His ball retention is the best of our midfield at times.

“Allan isn’t the finished article, but he will do absolutely everything in his power to stay at a high level in the game.”

During his first spell at the club as assistant manager, Robinson marked out Campbell as a player to keep an eye on due to the youngster’s work ethic and dedication to improving himself as a player.

And even though he is now an established first-team player, having made 24 appearances in all competitions this season, Campbell retains a humility along with his infectious enthusiasm that has impressed his manager immensely.

“When you see young boys being as dedicated as him and making the most out of their talent, it’s great,” he said.

“That’s what Allan does, and I even use him as an example when I am talking to some of the older players. He’s the first one in the gym and he doesn’t say much, he just grunts and growls at you now and again. But he’s a boy who pushes himself to the limit.

“When I first came in as manager, he was taking two buses just to get to training. He might have a car now, but nothing has changed in terms of his enthusiasm and drive.

“Getting the two buses just sums him up as a boy. But then he still cleans his own boots. In fact, he still cleans Keith Lasley’s boots.

“We try to say to him, ‘You are a first-team player now, son’ but he’s only just moved into their dressing room.

“Sometimes players change when they get to the first team. What got them there in the first place disappears. But Allan isn’t like that. He’s just got a determination to be the best he can be and that’s inspirational.”

It is no surprise to Robinson therefore that the Motherwell supporters have taken Campbell to their hearts.

“He has a quality about him that we like at this club,” he said.

“Players can earn so much money in the modern game that they don’t relate to the fans, but people look at Allan and see that he is one of them.

“That’s why they love him.”