Alan Irvine has backed Graham Dorrans to play a role for Scotland in their upcoming matches against the Republic of Ireland and England.

The West Bromwich Albion midfielder, who has 10 caps for the national side, was an unused substitute for the team's win over Georgia earlier this year, but has otherwise not featured recently, although he has been named in Gordon Strachan's latest squad.

The Baggies manager told the club's website: "Graham has become a really important part of the team, probably not playing in his favourite position, which would be as a number 10. But we're playing in a certain way at this moment and Graham is a big part of that.

"He's got good quality with the ball, he's a goal threat and he's played really well. He is waiting for his chance on the international side of things. The midfield have done well for Scotland it's a difficult side to break into. But Graham will get there.

"From day one of pre-season he has worked really well. It's not been difficult putting him in the team. He finished last season well and has carried on from there. I'm very pleased with him."

Scotland host Ireland in a Euro 2016 qualifier next Friday before facing England in a friendly four days later.