Real Madrid's Jack Harper snubbed by Scotland Under-19s for being a 'luxury player'

The 19-year-old has been with the Spanish club's academy since 2009 but Ricky Sbragia insists his side "can't carry" the forward

Real Madrid forward Jack Harper has been left out Scotland’s Under-19 squad for being a ‘luxury player’.

The 19-year-old has been a part of Madrid’s academy since 2009 and has scored three goals in six appearances in this season’s Uefa Youth League.

This month, Scotland Under-19s face Austria, Italy and Croatia as they attempt to qualify for the finals of the European Championship in July but the team’s coach, Ricky Sbragia, believes Harper lacks the physicality to warrant a place in his squad.

"At Real Madrid, Jack can float all over the place, which he does. But with us he has to be more disciplined,” said Sbragia.

"He's an exceptionally gifted lad but we can't carry him. He can be a luxury sometimes.

"In some cases, if it's going well, he can be a good luxury. And listen, Jack's time will come.

"I've gone for a physical side and runners. Hopefully I'm proved right in Austria. It's purely a tactical decision."