KEVIN Gallacher is eager to make up for lost time on Saturday with the World Cup finals looming on the horizon.

The 31-year-old Blackburn striker has been on the international scene now for 10 years.

Yet after making his debut against Colombia in May 1988, his appearances have been spasmodic mainly because of a series of injuries.

And he was ruled out of the 2-2 draw against Colombia last Saturday at the Giants Stadium after picking a stomach bug when he arrived in America.

However his fitness is improving daily and he looks certain to win his 36th cap for Scotland against the United States at the RFK Stadium.

Gallacher, who has battled back from two broken legs, scored six crucial goals in the World Cup qualifiers.

He was also in good form at club level taking his tally to 20 and helping Blackburn secure a UEFA Cup place.

Scotland manager Craig Brown knows Gallacher will carry a lot of the nation's hopes on his slim shoulders when they face holders Brazil at the Stade de France on June 10.

But that doesn't worry the player.

"It comes with the territory," he said. "The pressure doesn't bother me and I am enjoying my football at the moment.

"I have had a good year with Blackburn and been playing consistently.

"I felt strong throughout the season and 20 goals was my best ever tally, beating my previous record of 16.

"The Scotland boys are quietly confident of doing well in the finals and from a personal point I just want to enjoy the whole occasion."

Gallacher and Gordon Durie scored the goals against Latvia that secured Scotland's passage to France.

But the Rangers striker could be sidelined from the game against the host nation after picking up a hamstring injury in the match with Colombia.

Roy Wegerle also looks likely to face his old Blackburn pal and Scotland skipper Colin Hendry.

The 34-year-old United States striker, who also had spells at Queens Park Rangers and Coventry, is winning the race for the lone forward's role.

National coach Steve Sampson is again expected to employ a radical 3-6-1 formation.

Wegerle, who is facing competition in the role from Brian McBride and Eric Wynalda, was impressive in the 2-0 victory against Kuwait on Sunday.

The former Ewood Park star is highly confident of starting the match for the World Cup finalists.

"I don't feel threatened by any player," said Wegerle, who was a fringe player only a month ago.

"I have played 10 years in the English Premiership and I have been one of the top players in that division."

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