Sebastien Pocognoli, the freshly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, has unveiled his first selection, introducing a blend of seasoned internationals and fresh talent. Among the newcomers are Sevilla forward Robbie Ure and Brondby defender Luis Binks, both earning their first full caps under the new coach.
The list also features Celtic centre‑back Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh, each of whom has been handed a chance to prove themselves in the upcoming Nations League fixtures. A notable recall sees Hull City striker Oli McBurnie return to the squad after a four‑year absence; his last appearance for Scotland came in 2021.
Goalkeeping duties will be shared by Scott Bain and Jon McCracken following the retirement of veteran Craig Gordon after the World Cup. Napoli’s promising midfielder Billy Gilmour is back after a knee injury forced him out of Steve Clarke’s final squad, while Luke Graham earns a place following a breakthrough season with Stoke City and a stint in Scotland’s pre‑World Cup training camp. Graham, a former under‑21 international who has featured in every minute of Stoke’s recent run of three wins and a draw, adds depth to the defensive line. Additional call‑ups include Sassuolo full‑backs Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, Udinese youngster Lennon Miller, and Hearts forward James Wilson, all of whom have been recalled to bolster the team.
Injuries have ruled some key players out: Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay is recovering from minor heart surgery, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is sidelined with a hamstring problem, and Torino forward Che Adams is also unavailable. Overall, twelve members of the World Cup‑going squad are missing from Pocognoli’s inaugural list.
Other notable absences are Rangers centre‑back John Souttar, Celtic’s Anthony Ralston, Hibernian defender Grant Hanley, Wrexham midfielder Dominic Hyam, Manchester United prospect Tyler Fletcher, Millwall’s Lyndon Dykes, Stoke forward George Hirst and Swansea striker Ross Stewart. Luis Binks, the 25‑year‑old captain of Danish SuperLiga side Brondby, brings a unique background: he represented Scotland at under‑18 level before switching allegiance to England’s youth teams. Robbie Ure, a product of the Rangers academy, secured a high‑profile move 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 also qualifies for Ukraine through a grand‑parent rule. Josh McPake’s inclusion rewards his impressive form since joining Hearts from St Johnstone this summer, while Stephen Welsh arrives after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season. Right‑back Colby Donovan has been ever‑present for Celtic this term and replaces his club teammate Anthony Ralston in the national setup.
The full squad breakdown is as follows: Goalkeepers: Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers), Jon McCracken (Bradford City). Defenders: 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), Stephen Welsh (Swansea City).
Midfielders: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Josh McPake (Hearts), Lennon Miller (Udinese). Forwards: Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla), James Wilson (Hearts).
Pocognoli explained his philosophy after announcing the roster: "The most important factor for me is the style of play I want to see on the pitch. My selections are driven by that vision. I could have named many more players, but I had to make choices based on the system we intend to implement, injury status and recent playing time. I believe we have a balanced mix of experienced campaigners, fresh faces, first‑cap players and those returning to the fold.
The aim is to welcome the newcomers, retain the seasoned core, and pass on the DNA, heritage and culture of Scottish football. This is the start of a new chapter; what happened before is history, and now we build something new. It’s a fresh opportunity for some and a new beginning for others, and we must translate that into the right attitude on and off the field." Former Scotland striker James McFadden, speaking to Sky Sports News, praised Ure’s progress: "Robbie has been on our radar since his standout season in Sweden before the World Cup, and his move to Sevilla proves he can compete at the highest level. He’s taken an unconventional path, but his bravery and determination deserve respect." Regarding McBurnie’s recall, McFadden added: "Oli has earned this chance.
He’s faced criticism over the years, but his passion for wearing the Scotland shirt is undeniable. After working hard abroad and returning to the Premier League, he’s ready to fight for the number nine role." Scotland’s upcoming Nations League schedule includes matches against Slovenia (26 September, 14:00), Switzerland (29 September, 19:45), North Macedonia (3 October, 19:45), a return fixture with Slovenia (6 October, 19:45), another clash with North Macedonia (13 November, 19:45) and a final game versus Switzerland (16 November, 19:45). Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for the latest updates, video highlights and in‑depth analysis.