Jamie Mackie has spoken exclusively to www.qpr.co.uk after today being named in Scotland's squad for their Euro 2012 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Spain.

Mackie's startling form for QPR since his summer arrival from Plymouth brought him to the attentions of Scotland Manager Craig Levein, and now the 25 year-old is preparing himself for his first international appearance.

Mackie, who has netted eight goals in nine league games for the R's, said: "It's a lot to take in. I am extremely proud to be part of the squad and hopefully I can add something to it.

"The season so far has been unbelievable. Any personal accolades I get along the way are a bonus, but the opportunity to play for Scotland is a massive, massive moment in my career.

"I want to grab this chance with both hands."

Mackie qualifies for Scotland through his grandfather, Graham, and the R's No.12 said: "My granddad isn't with us anymore but he was a very proud Scotsman from Kilmarnock, and this is a really special moment for my whole family.

"I am delighted to be given this opportunity.

"I will have a lot of family going to both games. They are all going to be over the moon - and there'll probably be a few people coming out of the woodwork now looking for tickets!"

While many of his QPR team-mates will enjoy a well-earned rest following this weekend's Championship encounter at Crystal Palace, Mackie will be travelling to Prague with the rest of the Scotland squad to face the Czech Republic on Friday 8th October.

Four days later, he will be at Hampden Park for the visit of Spain.

While R's fans may be concerned about Mackie's fitness levels when he returns for Championship duty, the player is convinced the extra games will be of benefit.

"I believe that the more I play, the better I am," he said. "I don't rest very well. I much prefer to be playing football.

"During the last international break I went to Spain with the family. We had a great time but I kept thinking that Scotland were playing, and I would preferred to have been there. And I told my missus that too!

"The Manager has said to me to be sensible and look after myself. I know my body, and I am sure the Scotland medical staff are second-to-none so they will look after any niggles I might get.

"It won't be until after the Palace game that I start to really get excited about it.

"I absolutely love playing for Queens Park Rangers, everyone knows that - and I just can't wait for Saturday's match so I can get out there again."