In his debut selection as Scotland's head coach, Sebastien Pocognoli has handed full international debuts to five newcomers, signalling a fresh direction for the national side. Among the fresh faces are Sevilla forward Robbie Ure and Brondby defender Luis Binks, both of whom have earned their first senior caps under the Belgian manager. Celtic's versatile centre‑back Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh have also been called up for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, adding depth across the back line, flanks and midfield.
The squad further includes a long‑awaited return for Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who has not represented Scotland since 2021, and two goalkeepers, Scott Bain and Jon McCracken, who replace veteran Craig Gordon following his retirement after the World Cup. Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour is back in the fold after a knee injury forced him out of Steve Clarke's final squad. Luke Graham, who impressed during Scotland's pre‑World Cup training camp in May and enjoyed a breakthrough season with Dundee, makes the list as well.
The Stoke City defender, a three‑time under‑21 international, has featured every minute as his club secured three wins and a draw in their last four Championship matches. Other notable inclusions are Serie A duo Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, both playing for Sassuolo, Udinese youngster Lennon Miller, and Hearts forward James Wilson, all of whom have been recalled to add quality and competition.
Injuries have forced the omission of several key players. Napoli’s Scott McTominay is sidelined while recovering from minor heart surgery, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is out with a hamstring problem, and Torino forward Che Adams remains injured.
A total of twelve members of the World Cup‑winning squad are absent from Pocognoli’s first roster. Also missing are Rangers centre‑back John Souttar, Celtic’s Anthony Ralston, Hibernian defender Grant Hanley, Wrexham’s Dominic Hyam, Manchester United’s Tyler Fletcher, Millwall’s Lyndon Dykes, Stoke’s George Hirst and Swansea’s Ross Stewart, among others. Luis Binks, the 25‑year‑old captain of Danish SuperLiga side Brondby, brings leadership to the back line. Although he has previously represented Scotland at under‑18 level, he later featured for England’s youth teams before committing to the Scottish senior side.
Robbie Ure, a former Rangers academy product, secured a high‑profile move to LaLiga club Sevilla after a prolific spell at Swedish side Sirius, where he scored 20 goals in as many games. The 22‑year‑old is also eligible for Ukraine through a grandparental link.
Josh McPake earned his call‑up after an impressive run since joining Hearts from St Johnstone in the summer, while Stephen Welsh is rewarded for a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season. Right‑back Colby Donovan has been a mainstay in Celtic’s defence this term and replaces his teammate Anthony Ralston in the national squad. The complete goalkeeper list features Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). Defenders called up include Luis Binks (Brondby), 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 comprises 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). Speaking after the announcement, Pocognoli emphasized his vision for the team: "The most important thing for me is the style of play I want to see on the pitch. My selections are based on that principle.
I could have added many more names, but I had to make tough choices. Some players are left out because they don't fit the system, others because of injury or lack of playing time.
I think we have a good balance of experienced campaigners, fresh faces, first‑cap players and returning veterans. The aim is to pass on the DNA, heritage and culture while starting a new chapter. The past is behind us; now we build something new. This is a fresh opportunity for some and a new beginning for others.
The right attitude on and off the field will be crucial." Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure's inclusion: "Robbie has been on our radar for his form in Sweden, especially leading up to the World Cup, but he missed out then. His move to Sevilla shows he can compete at the highest level. Scotland has struggled for competition in the forward line for years, and Robbie's unconventional path deserves respect.
He’s been brave, moved abroad, and focused on his development to reach this point." Regarding Oli McBurnie's recall, McFadden added: "Oli deserves his chance. There’s been some backlash against him over the years, but his passion for Scotland is undeniable. He’s been patient, worked hard away from home, and now he’s back in the Premier League.
He definitely merits a look to see if he can claim the number nine role for Scotland." The upcoming Nations League schedule sees Scotland facing Slovenia on September 26 (2 pm), Switzerland on September 29 (7.45 pm), North Macedonia on October 3 (7.45 pm), a return fixture with Slovenia on October 6 (7.45 pm), another match against North Macedonia on November 13 (7.45 pm) and a final game versus Switzerland on November 16 (7.45 pm). Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for the latest updates, video highlights, analysis and more.