From ball boy to Champions League dream - how fearless Celtic star intends to catch eye of new Scotland boss

Colby Donovan did not score against LASK Linz. He did not provide the headline-grabbing moments. Yet, in front of new Scotland manager Sébastien Pocognoli, the 19-year-old right-back delivered precisely the sort of performance that can alter perceptions of a player.

Stepping in for the injured Alistair Johnston, Donovan handled the first leg of Celtic's Champions League play-off tie with a composure that belied his age. He defended stoutly, was comfortable in possession and repeatedly offered Celtic a positive attacking outlet. His link up play with Durán throughout the match was another illustration of his willingness to contribute beyond his defensive duties.

Johnston’s absence had created an obvious question mark on Celtic’s right-hand side, but Donovan responded with the spotlight on him by making the position look rather less problematic than it had appeared. His maturity was particularly notable given the circumstances.

For Pocognoli, watching from the stands on his first assignment as Scotland boss, it was an intriguing audition. The Belgian coach has spoken about taking a fresh look at the national team and blooding in new faces. Donovan’s energetic display could hardly have been better timed.

The youngster, however, insists earning international recognition is not occupying his thoughts at present.

“I just want to do the job for the club,” Donovan said post-match. “You kind of don't think about that. After a game, you see it on your phone, social media and all that. Obviously the new Scotland manager has come in. You just need to give 110 per cent performance for your club and give them a thought that maybe this boy can play.”

He may not be campaigning for a senior Scotland call-up, but Donovan understands what a strong display such as this could mean. International managers don't need to be convinced by reputation when a young player performs under pressure in European competition.

For Donovan, the Champions League was something he once watched from the stands. He even worked as a ball boy at a couple of games. On Wednesday night, he stood on the pitch beneath the Celtic Park lights, listened to the anthem he had grown up hearing and contributed to a 3-0 victory that leaves Celtic in a commanding position ahead of the return leg in Austria. A reality that was difficult to absorb.

“I used to sit in these stands and listen to the anthem and watch the boys,” he smiled. “For me to actually do it, words actually can't describe it. You just need to put that aside and do the job for the team.”

Perhaps the most impressive aspect; Donovan looked every inch a player comfortable with the rigours of European football. Given the scale of the occasion, there was little evidence of stage fright. Instead, he offered a compelling indication that he intends to stay at this level.

“I hardly get nervous for games,” he explained. “You just need to play your own game and tell yourself 'you’ve done it all your years’. It’s nothing strange, it’s the same pitch, it’s the same ball. I try and give my best for the badge every game I go into. Hearing the fans before the game with that Champions League anthem, it was so special. This is what I want to play in, I want to play in the highest competition.”

That mentality may prove valuable long-term. Celtic currently have an established international waiting to return from a spell on the sidelines, but Donovan has demonstrated that he is no longer merely an academy prospect plugging a gap. He is a genuine first-team option - and, after one of the biggest nights of his fledgling career, Scotland’s new manager has been given a welcome headache ahead of announcing his first squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign next month.