St Mirren midfielder Kenny McLean appears to have been the reason for Blues boss Mick McCarthy’s visit to Dundee United's Tannadice to watch the Scotland U21s draw 2-2 with Hungary on Wednesday.

McLean was initially linked with Town in January 2013 and again last summer, while the likes of Nottingham Forest have also previously been linked.

The 22-year-old started Wednesday's friendly before being replaced in the 58th minute.

According to reports north of the border, the Blues are monitoring McLean’s situation with his Buddies contract up at the end of the season.

Rutherglen-born McLean, who plays on the left or in the centre of midfield, started his senior career with his current club having been released by Rangers as a youngster, but spent time on loan at Arbroath in 2010.

Photo: Action Images via Reuters