Maguire is vital for Scotland U21s

SCOTLAND Under-21 boss Billy Stark was today hoping Chris Maguire could once again be his side’s talisman in the Pittodrie clash with Austria (4pm).

The Aberdeen FC striker was set to lead the line in the make-or-break Euro 2011 qualifier at his home ground.

Scotland knew victory would secure a spot in the play-offs for next summer’s finals in Denmark.

Maguire scored a penalty in last Friday’s 1-1 draw in Belarus, leaving his manager wanting more of the same against the Austrians.

He said: “Chris has been a talisman for us in the campaign and if you are going to have success, you tend to have a player or two like that.

“Chris has taken on that mantle and has been absolutely outstanding.

“He earned the right to captain us in the friendly against Sweden last month and that tells you a lot about him.”