Sebastien Pocognoli, the freshly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, has unveiled his very first selection for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, and the list is peppered with a number of fresh faces. Among the newcomers are Sevilla striker Robbie Ure and Brondby defender Luis Binks, both of whom receive their first full international caps under the new coach. The squad also features Celtic centre‑back Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh, each earning a maiden call‑up to the senior side.
Their inclusion signals Pocognoli’s willingness to blend youth with experience as he seeks to implement a distinct playing style. One of the most talked‑about selections is the long‑awaited recall of Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who last represented Scotland in 2021.
After a period of criticism and speculation surrounding his form, the former Premier League forward finally receives the nod to re‑join the national team. In goal, veteran keepers Scott Bain and Jon McCracken return to the fold following the retirement of Craig Gordon after the World Cup. Their presence provides a reliable option between the sticks as Scotland looks to stabilise its defensive foundation. Napoli’s promising youngster Billy Gilmour is also back after a knee injury forced him to withdraw from Steve Clarke’s final squad.
Gilmour’s return adds creativity to the midfield, complementing the likes of Luca Doig and Kieron Bowie, who ply their trade in Italy’s Serie A with Sassuolo. Luke Graham, who impressed during Scotland’s pre‑World Cup training camp in May and enjoyed a breakout season with Dundee, earns a place in the 25‑man roster. The Stoke City defender has already accumulated three caps at under‑21 level and has been an ever‑present figure as his club secured three wins and a draw in their last four Championship outings. Other notable inclusions are Lennon Miller of Udinese, Hearts forward James Wilson, and a host of other players who have performed well at club level.
However, a handful of familiar names are missing: Napoli midfielder 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. In total, twelve players who featured at the World Cup are absent from Pocognoli’s inaugural list. Among those left out 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 striker Ross Stewart.
Luis Binks, who captains Danish SuperLiga side Brondby, is an interesting case. The 25‑year‑old has represented Scotland at under‑18 level before opting to play for England’s youth teams, highlighting his dual‑nationality background. Robbie Ure, a product of the Rangers academy, secured a high‑profile transfer to LaLiga club Sevilla after a prolific spell at Swedish side Sirius, where he netted 20 goals in as many games.
The 22‑year‑old is also eligible for Ukraine through a grand‑parent rule, adding another layer to his international options. Josh McPake’s selection rewards his impressive form since moving to Hearts from St Johnstone in the summer.
Stephen Welsh, meanwhile, earns his call‑up after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season, demonstrating his growth and readiness for senior duties. Right‑back Colby Donovan, a regular starter for Celtic this season, replaces his club‑mate Anthony Ralston in the back line, while the defensive unit also includes seasoned campaigners such as Andy Robertson (Tottenham), Kieran Tierney (Celtic) and Scott McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb). The full list of goalkeepers features Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City).
Midfield options are plentiful: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Josh McPake (Hearts) and Lennon Miller (Udinese) provide a blend of creativity, work‑rate and experience. Up front, the attacking line includes Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla) and James Wilson (Hearts). This assortment offers a mix of pace, physicality and goal‑scoring instinct.
Pocognoli addressed the media after announcing his squad, emphasizing his philosophy: “The most important thing for me is the style of play I want to see on the pitch. My selections have been guided by that principle.
I could have named many more players, but I had to make tough choices based on how they fit into the system, injuries and recent playing time. I believe we have a good balance of seasoned veterans, fresh talent, first‑cap players and those returning to the fold.
The aim 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 we must show the right attitude both on and off the field.” Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure’s rise: “Robbie was on our radar after his prolific spell in Sweden, but he missed the World Cup squad. His move to Sevilla proves he can compete at the highest level. Scotland has lacked depth in that position for years, and his unconventional path shows courage and determination.” McFadden also defended McBurnie’s recall: “Oli deserves his chance.
There’s been some backlash over the past few years, but he’s passionate about wearing the Scotland shirt. He’s worked hard, regained his form in the Premier League, and now has the chance to stake claim to the number nine role.” Scotland’s upcoming fixtures in the Nations League include matches against Slovenia (26 September, 14:00), Switzerland (29 September, 19:45), North Macedonia (3 October, 19:45), a return clash with Slovenia (6 October, 19:45), another game versus North Macedonia (13 November, 19:45) and a final encounter with Switzerland (16 November, 19:45).
Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for the latest updates, video highlights and in‑depth analysis. In summary, Sebastien Pocognoli’s first Scotland squad reflects a strategic blend of youth and experience, a clear tactical vision, and a willingness to give new talent a chance on the international stage. The selections aim to rejuvenate the team’s identity while maintaining the competitive edge required for the Nations League campaign.