Pearson has yet to score this season

Derby County midfielder Stephen Pearson insists his failure to win a place in new Scotland manager Craig Levein's first squad does not worry him.

Pearson, 27, has ten international caps but has had an injury-blighted spell at Pride Park and has not represented his country in nearly 30 months.

But he has enjoyed a good run in the Rams side this season, playing 21 consecutive games and missing just six.

"I wasn't really disappointed. I take it as it comes," Pearson said.

"If it comes, great. If it doesn't, I'll try to keep doing well for Derby.

I'm feeling stronger...It's as good as I've felt for Derby Derby midfielder Stephen Pearson

"If I'm not playing well for Derby, I won't get any recognition. First of all, it is about staying fit and playing well for Derby. Whatever else happens is a bonus."

Pearson, who joined the Rams from Celtic in January 2007, says he is enjoying his football again after a tough couple of years.

And even though he was overlooked by Levein for last week's friendly victory over the Czech Republic, his injury-free spell has left him in a positive frame of mind.

"It's been stop-start for me since I signed," Pearson added. "I've played five or six games and then missed a couple, so to play 20-odd games is good and I'm feeling stronger fitness-wise. It's as good as I've felt for Derby.

606: DEBATE Pearson makes a great difference, end product or not. He's fast and direct DE7-DCFC

"I'm training every day and playing games every week. I'm keeping myself fit and keeping myself in the best shape possible. I feel better in myself and physically stronger for getting a run of games.

"I've been unfortunate with injuries but hopefully I've put that behind me now.

"I'm feeling injury-free, which is good, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season. Hopefully, I'll stay fit."

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