MODEST Graeme Smith last night admitted he needs to concern himself with being Motherwell's No.1 - and forget about forcing his way into Scotland's World Cup 2010 bid.
The Fir Park keeper made an outstanding contribution to the B squad in their 1-1 draw against Republic of Ireland at Airdrie.
Smith looked solid and secure and his display caught the attention of national coach Alex McLeish, who lavished praise on the former Rangers player after the game.
The 24-year-old, though, has no intention of letting himself get carried away in the wake of his impressive performance.
Instead, Smith is desperate to ensure he keeps his place in Mark McGhee's Motherwell side.
He said: "The Scotland manager's message was for me to go and play for my club and that is the main focus - to do well for Motherwell.
"It is a fact the manager is going to have to bring someone else into the club, that's just life. You're always going to have competition for places and that's fine by me.
"But it's just about getting the job done for Motherwell because if I can do that the other things will happen.
"It's all about my own performance levels. I wasn't happy with how last season went but I'm a lot happier with my form so far this season.
"It's more like my first season here. I did okay and managed to get into the full squad so I know I will get more chances if I'm doing the business at Fir Park."
Smith was in the senior squad when Walter Smith was in charge and McLeish has made it clear there are spots available to support Craig Gordon.
Smith said: "There are a lot of good keepers around but you have to be doing well if you want to get in.
"First and foremost you need to be doing well for your club and that is my job here at Motherwell."
