RALPH Hasenhuttl insisted international football could be a “bonus on top” for firing frontman Che Adams – with the Saints striker reportedly eligible to represent Scotland.

Adams has been in fine form for the St Mary’s side in recent weeks, netting three times in four games in the Premier League.

Born in Leicester, the forward is reportedly qualified to play for Steve Clarke’s side through a grandparent.

He has previously represented England under-20s in 2015, having also reportedly turned down the chance to play for Antigua & Barbuda.

Asked whether Adams was good enough to take his game on to the international stage, Hasenhuttl replied: “Our team has shown in the past that we have two internationals for England now and a lot of other international players for other teams.

“If you are performing well in the Premier League, then everything is open for you.

“The most important thing is he still develops his game. I think he's made a big step forward this season after a tough first one.

“But he never stopped working hard and I think this is his secret of being successful.

“We will definitely give him all the support he wants and then it's about him - to show up, learn quickly to get better and get more and more into the positions where you can score."

With Scotland booking their place at next summer’s European Championship, Adams could find himself landing a place at a major international tournament.

Quizzed on whether he had spoken to the striker about a possible Scotland call-up, Hasenhuttl replied: “I didn't speak with him about this.

“Such decisions are up to the player and it’s not about the club manager to speak with the player about this. He must take this decision by himself.

"For me, it’s the most important thing that he is focused on his work here and international football can be a bonus on top."

Adams is set to feature for Saints in the top flight at Wolves on Monday (8pm).