Sebastien Pocognoli, the newly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, has unveiled his first selection for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, and the list features a notable influx of newcomers. Among the debutants are Sevilla striker Robbie Ure and Brøndby centre‑back Luis Binks, who join a group of five players receiving their first full senior caps under the Belgian coach. The squad also includes Celtic defender Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh, all of whom have earned their maiden call‑ups for the senior side. Their inclusion reflects Pocognoli's desire to blend youthful energy with experienced campaigners as he seeks to reshape the team's tactical identity.
A long‑awaited return is also on the cards for Hull City forward Oli McBurnie, who last appeared for Scotland in 2021. After a period of criticism and a dip in form, McBurnie's performances in the English Championship have convinced the new manager that he deserves another chance to lead the line for his country. In goal, veteran Scott Bain and promising youngster Jon McCracken have been recalled following the retirement of Craig Gordon after the World Cup. Their experience and potential will provide depth as Scotland prepares for a demanding international schedule.
Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour is back after a knee injury forced him out of Steve Clarke's final squad. Gilmour's technical ability and composure on the ball make him a valuable asset in the middle of the park, and his recovery is seen as a boost for Pocognoli's plans. Stoke City defender Luke Graham, who impressed during Scotland's pre‑World Cup training camp in May and enjoyed a breakthrough season with Dundee, has also earned a place.
Graham, a three‑time under‑21 international, has been an ever‑present figure for the Potters, helping them secure three wins and a draw in their last four Championship matches. Further additions include Sassuolo duo Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, Udinese prospect Lennon Miller, and Hearts attacker James Wilson, all of whom have been recalled to add depth across the defensive and attacking lines. However, not everyone will be available. Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay is sidelined as he recovers from a minor heart operation, while Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland misses out due to a hamstring problem.
Torino forward Che Adams is also out with injury concerns. In total, twelve players who featured at the World Cup are absent from Pocognoli's inaugural roster. Among the notable omissions are Rangers centre‑back John Souttar, Celtic's Anthony Ralston, Hibernian defender Grant Hanley, Wrexham midfielder Dominic Hyam, Manchester United youngster Tyler Fletcher, Millwall's Lyndon Dykes, Stoke forward George Hirst and Swansea forward Ross Stewart. Luis Binks, now captaining Danish SuperLiga side Brøndby, brings leadership to the back line despite being only 25.
He previously represented Scotland at under‑18 level before switching allegiance to England at youth level, highlighting his dual‑national background. Robbie Ure, a product of the Rangers academy, secured a high‑profile transfer to LaLiga side Sevilla after a prolific spell at Swedish club Sirius, where he scored 20 goals in as many games. The 22‑year‑old is also eligible for Ukraine through a grandparent, adding an intriguing international eligibility angle. Josh McPake's inclusion rewards his strong form since moving from St Johnstone to Hearts over the summer, while Stephen Welsh earns his spot after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season.
Right‑back Colby Donovan, a regular starter for Celtic this term, replaces his teammate Anthony Ralston in the defensive lineup. The full list of goalkeepers comprises Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). Defenders called up are 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). The midfield contingent features 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 explained his selection philosophy after announcing the squad: "The most important factor for me is the style of play I want to implement on the pitch.
My focus has been to choose players who fit that vision. I could have added many more names, but I had to make tough decisions based on the system we intend to use, injuries and recent playing time.
We have a balanced mix of seasoned internationals, fresh faces, first‑cap players and those returning from injury. The goal is to welcome the newcomers, preserve the team's DNA and culture, and start a new chapter. Past events belong to history; now we build something new. This is a fresh opportunity for many and a new beginning for others.
The ultimate test will be on the field, with the right attitude both on and off the pitch." Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure's rise: "Robbie was on our radar after his impressive season in Sweden, but he missed the World Cup squad. Moving to Sevilla shows he can compete at the highest level.
Scotland has lacked competition in that position for years, and Robbie's unconventional path deserves respect. He took a brave step abroad, focused on his development, and now it's paying off." Regarding McBurnie's recall, McFadden added: "Oli deserves this chance.
He's faced criticism lately, but his passion for wearing the Scottish shirt is evident. He's been patient, worked hard on himself, and returned to the Premier League. He has the quality to stake a claim for the number nine role." Scotland's upcoming fixtures under Pocognoli will see them face Slovenia on September 26, Switzerland on September 29, North Macedonia on October 3, a return clash with Slovenia on October 6, another encounter with North Macedonia on November 13, and a final match against Switzerland on November 16. The new manager hopes the blend of youth and experience will deliver a dynamic, cohesive performance throughout the Nations League campaign.