Scotland assistant manager Steven Naismith has thrown his full support behind Lawrence Shankland ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, insisting the striker is playing the best football of his career.

Naismith praised Shankland's outstanding season at Hearts and expressed confidence that the forward can carry that momentum into the World Cup, even as speculation swirls around a potential move to Rangers.

"Best he's ever been," Naismith said of the striker, underlining how highly the Scotland coaching staff rate Shankland heading into the tournament.

Despite the transfer rumours threatening to create a distraction, Naismith made clear his belief that Shankland's focus and form will remain intact on the international stage.