Sebastien Pocognoli, the freshly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, has unveiled his first selection for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, and it features a notable influx of fresh talent. Among the newcomers are Sevilla forward Robbie Ure and Brøndby defender Luis Binks, who join a group of three other debutants in what is being billed as a rejuvenated side. Also earning their first full caps are Celtic's versatile defender Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh. The trio have all impressed at club level and now have the chance to prove themselves on the international stage.
A long‑awaited recall comes for Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who last represented Scotland in 2021. His performances in the English Championship have convinced Pocognoli that he deserves another look, and the forward is eager to add to his international tally. In goal, veteran Scott Bain returns alongside Jon McCracken after veteran Craig Gordon announced his retirement following the World Cup. Their experience will be vital as Scotland look to shore up the last line of defence.
Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour is back after a knee injury forced him out of Steve Clarke’s final squad. His creative spark and composure on the ball are expected to add a new dimension to Pocognoli’s midfield. Stoke City centre‑back Luke Graham, who impressed during Scotland’s pre‑World Cup training camp in May and enjoyed a breakthrough season with Dundee, also makes the list. Graham has been a mainstay for the Potters, playing every minute as they recorded three wins and a draw in their last four Championship outings.
Other recalls include Sassuolo duo Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, Udinese youngster Lennon Miller and Hearts forward James Wilson, all of whom have shown consistency in their respective leagues. However, not everyone is available. Napoli’s Scott McTominay is sidelined while recovering from minor heart surgery, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is nursing a hamstring strain, and Torino forward Che Adams is also out injured.
In total, twelve players who featured at the World Cup are missing from Pocognoli’s inaugural roster. Among those omitted are Rangers centre‑back John Souttar, Celtic’s Anthony Ralston, Hibernian defender Grant Hanley, Wrexham’s Dominic Hyam, Manchester United youngster Tyler Fletcher, Millwall’s Lyndon Dykes, Stoke forward George Hirst and Swansea’s Ross Stewart. Luis Binks, who captains Danish SuperLiga side Brøndby, is an interesting case.
The 25‑year‑old previously represented Scotland at under‑18 level before switching allegiance to England’s youth teams, but he now returns to the Scottish fold as a senior defender. Robbie Ure, a product of the Rangers academy, secured a high‑profile transfer to La Liga side Sevilla after a prolific spell with Swedish club Sirius, where he scored 20 goals in as many games. At 22, Ure is also eligible for Ukraine through his grandparents, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his international future.
Josh McPake’s inclusion rewards his impressive form since moving to Hearts from St Johnstone in the summer. Meanwhile, Stephen Welsh earned his call‑up after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season, showcasing his adaptability across the midfield. Colby Donovan, a right‑back who has featured in every Celtic match this campaign, replaces his club teammate Anthony Ralston in the national squad, highlighting Pocognoli’s desire to blend familiarity with fresh perspectives. The full goalkeeper roster lists Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City).
The defensive line‑up includes Luis Binks (Brøndby), Josh Doig (Sassuolo), Colby Donovan (Celtic), Luke Graham (Stoke City), Jack Hendry (Al‑Ettifaq), Aaron Hickey (Brentford), Scott McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb), Nathan Patterson (Torino), Andy Robertson (Tottenham), Kieran Tierney (Celtic) and Stephen Welsh (Swansea City). Midfield selections feature Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Josh McPake (Hearts) and Lennon Miller (Udinese). Up front, the forwards are Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla) and James Wilson (Hearts).
Pocognoli addressed the media after announcing the squad, emphasizing his tactical priorities: “The most important thing for me is the style of play I want to see on the pitch. My selections have been driven by that vision.
I could have named many more players, but I had to make tough choices based on how they fit our system, injury status and recent playing time.” He added, “We have a healthy mix of seasoned veterans, new faces, first‑cap players and returning squad members. The goal is to pass on the DNA, heritage and culture of Scottish football while starting a new chapter. This is a fresh opportunity for many, and the attitude we bring on and off the field will define us.” Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure’s rise: “Robbie’s been on our radar since his standout season in Sweden, and his move to Sevilla proves he can compete at the highest level.
He’s taken an unconventional route, but his bravery and development deserve respect.” Regarding McBurnie’s recall, McFadden noted, “Oli has endured a lot of criticism, but his passion for the shirt is undeniable. He’s worked hard, earned his place back in the Premier League, and now deserves a chance to claim the number nine role for Scotland.” The upcoming fixtures will see Scotland face Slovenia on September 26, Switzerland on September 29, North Macedonia on October 3, a return clash with Slovenia on October 6, another match against North Macedonia on November 13 and a final game versus Switzerland on November 16. Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for real‑time updates, video highlights and in‑depth analysis as the new era of Scottish football unfolds.