Sebastien Pocognoli, the freshly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, has unveiled his first selection for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, introducing five players who will earn their first full international caps. Among the newcomers are Sevilla forward Robbie Ure and Brøndby defender Luis Binks, both of whom have impressed at club level and now receive the honour of representing Scotland at senior level. Joining Ure and Binks are Celtic's versatile defender Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake, and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh.
The trio have each enjoyed strong domestic seasons and have been rewarded with call‑ups for the next round of competitive matches. The squad also features a highly anticipated return for Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who has not featured for Scotland since 2021. McBurnie's recall follows a productive spell back in the Premier League and signals the coaching staff’s belief that he can once again contribute to the national attack. Between the posts, veteran keepers Scott Bain and Jon McCracken have been reinstated after long‑time number one Craig Gordon announced his retirement following the World Cup.
Their experience will be valuable as Scotland looks to solidify its defensive foundation. Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour also makes the list after missing the previous selection due to a knee injury that forced him to withdraw from Steve Clarke’s final squad.
Gilmour’s technical ability and composure on the ball are expected to add creativity in midfield. Stoke City centre‑back Luke Graham earns a place after a breakthrough season with Dundee and participation in Scotland’s pre‑World Cup training camp in May. Graham has been a mainstay for Stoke, playing every minute of their recent run of three victories and a draw in the Championship, showcasing his reliability and defensive acumen. Additional recalls include Serie A side Sassuolo’s Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, Udinese’s young prospect Lennon Miller, and Hearts forward James Wilson.
Their inclusion reflects Pocognoli’s desire to blend youth with experience and to broaden the pool of talent available for selection. Notably absent from the list are several players still recovering from injury or personal circumstances. Napoli’s Scott McTominay is sidelined after undergoing minor heart surgery, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is nursing a hamstring problem, and Torino forward Che Adams remains out with a lingering injury. Their unavailability creates opportunities for the newcomers to stake a claim.
Overall, twelve members of the World Cup‑winning squad are missing from Pocognoli’s inaugural roster. Among those omitted are Rangers centre‑back John Souttar, Celtic midfielder Anthony Ralston, Hibernian defender Grant Hanley, Wrexham’s Dominic Hyam, Manchester United’s Tyler Fletcher, Millwall’s Lyndon Dykes, Stoke forward George Hirst, and Swansea striker Ross Stewart. Luis Binks, the 25‑year‑old defender, captains Danish SuperLiga side Brøndby and has a unique international background: he previously represented Scotland at under‑18 level before switching allegiance to England’s youth teams. His leadership qualities and versatility make him a valuable addition.
Robbie Ure, a former Rangers academy graduate, secured a high‑profile transfer to La Liga club Sevilla after a prolific spell with Swedish side Sirius, where he scored an astonishing 20 goals in 20 appearances. At 22, Ure also qualifies for Ukraine through the grand‑parent rule, adding an intriguing layer to his international eligibility.
Josh McPake’s inclusion rewards his impressive form since moving from St Johnstone to Hearts during the summer. His pace and directness on the wing have been key factors in Hearts’ attacking play. Stephen Welsh, meanwhile, arrives after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic, where he demonstrated his ability to control the midfield and contribute both defensively and offensively. Right‑back Colby Donovan has been a constant presence in Celtic’s back line this season, earning his place over teammate Anthony Ralston.
His consistency and defensive work‑rate have impressed the new manager. The full goalkeeper roster lists Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). The defensive line features 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 options include 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 tactical vision: “The most important factor for me is the style of play I want to implement on the pitch. My selections are guided by that philosophy.
I could have named many more players, but I had to make difficult choices. Some players are omitted because they don’t fit the system, others because of injuries or lack of game time. I believe we have a balanced mix of seasoned veterans, fresh faces, first‑cap players, and those returning from absence. The goal is to welcome the newcomers, preserve the national team DNA, heritage and culture, and start a new chapter.
The past is behind us; now we build something new. This is a fresh opportunity for many and a new beginning for others. It’s about performing on the field and maintaining the right attitude off it as well.” Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure’s development: “Robbie Ure has been on our radar since his standout season in Sweden before the World Cup, but he missed out then. His move to Sevilla proves he can compete at the highest level.
Scotland has struggled to produce quality forwards for years, and Ure’s unconventional path shows his bravery and determination. He deserves respect for stepping out of his comfort zone and forging his own career.” Regarding McBurnie’s recall, McFadden added: “Oli deserves this chance.
He’s faced criticism over the past few years, but his passion for wearing the Scotland shirt has never waned. He’s been patient, worked hard, and now back in the Premier League, he’s ready to fight for the number nine role.” Scotland’s upcoming fixtures in the Nations League include matches against Slovenia on September 26 (2 pm), Switzerland on September 29 (7.45 pm), North Macedonia on October 3 (7.45 pm), a return clash with Slovenia on October 6 (7.45 pm), another encounter with 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.
The announcement also promotes a Super 6 competition with a £1 million prize, offering a free entry for participants.