Robbie Ure, the forward who plies his trade with Sevilla, and Luis Binks, a promising talent from Brøndby, have both earned their first senior caps as part of the initial selection announced by Scotland’s new manager, Sébastien Pocognoli. Their inclusion marks a fresh wave of talent being ushered into the national team setup, alongside three other newcomers who have also received their maiden full‑international call‑ups. The list of debutants is rounded out by Colby Donovan, a defender currently featuring for Celtic, and Josh McPake, a winger who has been making an impact at Hearts.
Completing the trio of fresh faces is Stephen Welsh, a versatile defender from Swansea City. All five have been named in the squad that will contest the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, signaling Pocognoli’s intent to blend youth with experience as he begins his tenure at the helm.
In addition to the newcomers, the squad also sees the long‑awaited return of Hull City striker Oli McBurnie. McBurnie, who last appeared for Scotland in 2021, has been recalled after a period of absence, reflecting his strong form at club level and the manager’s desire to broaden his attacking options. Goalkeeping duties will be shared among Scott Bain and Jon McCracken, who have been reinstated following the retirement of veteran keeper Craig Gordon after the World Cup.
Their presence provides depth and competition for the number‑one spot, while also offering a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour also makes a comeback to the national side after missing the World Cup due to a knee injury. Since recovering, Gilmour has enjoyed a run of consistent minutes, featuring in a full 90‑minute performance against Arsenal in the Champions League and then helping Napoli secure a 1‑0 Serie A victory over Bologna on Sunday.
His resurgence adds creativity and composure to Scotland’s midfield. However, not all key players will be available.
Scott McTominay, the Rangers midfielder who currently stars for Napoli, is sidelined as he recuperates from a minor heart procedure. Similarly, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is out with a hamstring problem, and Torino forward Che Adams is dealing with an injury of his own. Their absences open opportunities for other forwards to step up and make an impression. The full roster for Pocognoli’s first squad is as follows: Goalkeepers: Scott Bain, Angus Gunn, Liam Kelly, Jon McCracken Defenders: Luis Binks, Josh Doig, Colby Donovan, Luke Graham, Jack Hendry, Aaron Hickey, Scott McKenna, Nathan Patterson, Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney, Stephen Welsh Midfielders: Ryan Christie, Lewis Ferguson, Billy Gilmour, John McGinn, Kenny McLean, Josh McPake, Lennon Miller Forwards: Kieron Bowie, Findlay Curtis, Ben Gannon‑Doak, Robbie Ure, James Wilson Scotland’s upcoming schedule in the Nations League is packed with challenging fixtures.
The campaign kicks off on 26 September with a match against Slovenia at 2 p.m., followed by a home encounter with Switzerland on 29 September at 7.45 p.m. The next round of games sees Scotland traveling to face North Macedonia on 3 October at 7.45 p.m., before returning to host Slovenia again on 6 October at the same evening kickoff. The final two matches of the group stage are slated for November.
Scotland will travel to play North Macedonia on 13 November at 7.45 p.m., and then host Switzerland on 16 November at 7.45 p.m. These games will be crucial in determining the nation’s standing in the league and could shape the trajectory of Pocognoli’s early tenure.
Beyond the on‑field action, fans are encouraged to engage with the Scottish Football Association’s promotional activities. A “Super 6” competition is currently running, offering participants a chance to win a £1 million prize. Entry is free, providing an exciting incentive for supporters to stay connected with the team throughout the Nations League run.
Overall, Pocognoli’s inaugural squad reflects a strategic blend of emerging talent and seasoned professionals. By integrating five debutants—Ure, Binks, Donovan, McPake and Welsh—while also recalling experienced players like McBurnie, the manager aims to inject fresh energy into the side without sacrificing stability.
The upcoming fixtures will serve as a testing ground for this new mix, and the performances of both the newcomers and returning veterans will be closely watched by supporters and pundits alike as Scotland seeks to make a strong impression on the international stage.