Russell Martin is still smiling after his memorable promotion with Norwich City – and he plans to make that pay for Scotland.

Martin is set to be a key figure for Gordon Strachan's side ahead of their crucial Euro 2016 qualifier against Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday week, after Friday night's home friendly with Qatar.

But when he was initially reunited with his international team-mates, it was club matters that brought Martin out in a smile: 'We had a little party right after the final but I hadn't actually seen any of the Norwich lads since,' said Martin.

'But when I (first) walked into the Scotland team hotel, one of the first people I spotted was Steven Whittaker – and we just stood there beaming.

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'It was nice to have a chat about it because I've not actually watched any of it back yet. I want to do that one day, I want to sit down and relive it all. In some ways the last week's been a bit of a come-down but at the same time, I'm buzzing. Mentally, Steven and I are really fresh and physically we're in good shape. We were playing at a really high intensity just last week so that will only help prepare for Dublin.'

Martin may come up against City team-mate Wes Hoolahan in that Group D qualifier – where international enemies will also be able to share a smile at Norwich City's brilliant day under the arch.

'The season culminated in one of the best days of my life and career. It's still not quite fully sunk in to be honest – but I've joined up with Scotland with a spring in my step, I know that much. Being successful is a great cure for tiredness but I'm genuinely feeling in good shape.'

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