Iwelumo in the frame for Scotland

Wolves striker Chris Iwelumo is in the frame for a first Scotland start in Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Norway.

With Kenny Miller sidelined by injury, the 30-year-old has emerged as an unlikely candidate to partner James McFadden in a match that is likely to be pivotal to the Scots’ chances of reaching South Africa 2010.

Manager George Burley also has the option of starting Rangers’ Kris Boyd, but Iwelumo is determined to seize his chance to be at the heart of the action after years spent watching Scotland in pub bars.

“I’m glad to be here but I want to be involved,” he said. “It’s a massive game and these are games all players want to play.

“We all know what the game means. We all want to go to the World Cup. It’s do or die.

“It’s a good bunch, we want to work for each other, play for each other and win for each other. It means a lot to all Scots.

“Because of the international break, usually I would go away with the missus and watch it abroad or in a little bar somewhere.

“It’s overwhelming that I’m here. I’m positive and I just want to be part of it.”

Iwelumo caught Burley’s eye by scoring eight times in seven matches for Wolves and the manager may be tempted to go with the man in form.

“Confidence is a massive factor,” the striker said. “It’s a massive blow to lose Kenny, he is an out-and-out striker, he gets goals and his work ethic is second to none. He is a fantastic player.

“But I met up with the boys yesterday and there is a great buzz. The technical players are awesome so everyone is positive.”

With the current Scotland squad containing the likes of 38-year-old David Weir and Graham Alexander, who is 37 on Friday, Iwelumo could yet be embarking on a lengthy international career.

“It sets the benchmark,” he said. “It’s up to myself to take that chance and make sure I do leave a lasting impression. If that’s what I do, hopefully I will be involved in further squads.”

With Holland the favourites to qualify as group winners, most pundits see Scotland, Norway and Macedonia are expected to fight for the runners-up spot and a potential finals spot via a play-off.