Glasgow City FC stars Leanne Ross and Hayley Lauder say the club's youth policy is helping to improve the standing of the national side.

Midfielder Ross and forward Lauder are preparing for their side's Champions League clash with Swedish giants Eskilstuna United as the Scottish champions bid for a place in the last 16 of the competition.

City reached the quarter final stage in the 2014/15 season and will look to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg against the Swedes to have the chance to strive for similar heights.

Along with steady European performances, the side place an emphasis on blooding youth players into the team and boast a large number of Scotland internationals, something Leanne Ross feels is no coincidence.

Speaking at a media conference, Ross said: "I think especially at this club we are known for giving youth players an opportunity, either to train with the first team or to play.

"I think that the more experience they can get at a higher level, whether it be just training with first team players or in the league or the Champions League, that can only bode well for them and for the club and Scotland as well."

With 120 international caps under her belt, 35-year-old Ross offers an experienced head to guide City's younger players.

Hayley Lauder, whose CV lists spells in Cyprus, Finland and Sweden, is one such player to benefit from a balanced blend of youthful energy and served wisdom, and believes the side can set a precedent for success on the international stage.

"I'm only in my second season with Glasgow City," Lauder said. " But they've always been the main force for many years now within Scotland.

"There's a strong number of players within the national team- starting players always in the [squad of] 18. I think that bodes well for the club.

"We've shown in recent competitions in Europe as well that we are very tactically aware and we can compete at that level."