While Wilson has gained a net six times in 24 appearances since breaking the first team this season, Shankland’s 29 -year -old scoring has decreased to four to 34.
“Shanks are the best professional,” Critchley said. “He is a good person and you will usually be upset – I would expect that.
“He is out doing extra today, if he does it all the time with his finish. I know he will be focusing on doing it for us, starting with the game tomorrow – between the current and the end of the season – and if that happens then I am sure at some point he will return to the international argument.”
Wilson revealed earlier this week that “his head was spinning” after Crititchley broke him about his insertion.
“It’s a special time, isn’t it?” The boss of hearts said. “I discovered the morning of the announcement.
“I pulled James after a team meeting to tell him and obviously he was surprised by the news – I don’t think he was expecting. You can see the excitement in his eyes and I think he was a little overwhelmed.”
Critchley said club tuition staff “should be very proud” as “he writes the exact type of person you want to give”.
And Norwich City’s Angus Gunn missed the injury, Gordon could start against the Greeks in front of Ranger ‘Liam Kelly and Cieran Slicker of Ipswich.
“It’s important games, big games that come to Scotland and I know what it means for Craig if he is still the first number,” Critchley added. “He’s been good.
“His shows this season have been high, so both players deserve to be in the squad.”
