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 five players earning their first full international caps are Sevilla forward Robbie Ure and Danish SuperLiga centre‑back Luis Binks, who captains Brondby. In addition, Celtic defender Colby Donovan, Hearts winger Josh McPake and Swansea City midfielder Stephen Welsh have all been handed their debut senior call‑ups.
The squad also marks the long‑awaited return of Hull City striker Oli McBurnie, who has not featured for Scotland since 2021, and the reinstatement of two goalkeepers, Scott Bain and Jon McCracken, after veteran Craig Gordon announced his retirement following 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, while Stoke City defender Luke Graham makes the cut after a breakthrough season with Dundee and a successful pre‑World Cup training camp in May. Graham, a three‑time under‑21 international, has been an ever‑present figure for Stoke City as the Potters amassed three victories and a draw in their last four Championship outings. Also returning are Sassuolo duo Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie, Udinese youngster Lennon Miller, and Hearts forward James Wilson, all of whom have been recalled to add depth across the pitch.
However, several key players are absent. Napoli’s Scott McTominay is sidelined while he recovers from minor heart surgery, Rangers striker Lawrence Shankland is out with a hamstring problem, and Torino forward Che Adams remains injured. In total, twelve members of the World Cup‑qualified squad are missing from Pocognoli’s inaugural selection.
Other notable exclusions include 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. A few background notes on the new faces: Luis Binks, 25, captains Brondby in Denmark and has previously represented Scotland at under‑18 level before switching allegiance to England at youth level. Robbie Ure, a former Rangers academy product, 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 is also eligible for Ukraine through a grand‑parent rule.
Josh McPake has earned his place thanks to impressive performances since joining Hearts from St Johnstone, while Stephen Welsh earned his call‑up after a successful loan at Motherwell from Celtic last season. Right‑back Colby Donovan has been a regular starter for Celtic this campaign, taking the spot of his teammate Anthony Ralston. The full roster of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards selected by Pocognoli 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 spoke after announcing the squad, emphasizing his philosophy: "The most important thing for me is the style of play I want to see on the pitch. My selections are driven by that vision. I could have added many more names, but I had to make tough choices.
Some players miss out because they don’t fit the system, others because of injuries or lack of game time. I believe we have a balanced mix of experienced campaigners, fresh talent, and players returning to the fold.
The goal is to welcome the newcomers, blend them with veterans, and pass on the DNA, heritage and culture of Scottish football. This is the start of a new chapter; what happened before is history.
Now we build something new. It’s a fresh opportunity for some and a true beginning for others. The aim is to perform on the field with the right attitude both on and off the pitch." Former Scotland striker James McFadden commented on Sky Sports News, highlighting Ure’s rise: "Robbie Ure has been on our radar ever since his standout season in Sweden ahead of the World Cup, but he missed out then.
His move to Sevilla proves he can compete at the highest level. Scotland have struggled for depth in that position for years, and his inclusion adds healthy competition. Robbie has taken an unconventional path, moving abroad and carving out his own career. He deserves respect for his bravery and dedication to reach this point." Regarding Oli McBurnie’s recall, McFadden added: "Oli deserves this chance.
There has been a lot of criticism aimed at him over recent years, but his passion for wearing the Scotland shirt is evident. He has been patient, worked hard, and now, back in the Premier League, he has the potential to claim the number nine role for the national side." The schedule for Scotland’s upcoming Nations League campaign includes matches against Slovenia on 26 September (2 pm), Switzerland on 29 September (7.45 pm), North Macedonia on 3 October (7.45 pm), a return fixture with Slovenia on 6 October (7.45 pm), another clash with North Macedonia on 13 November (7.45 pm), and finally Switzerland on 16 November (7.45 pm). Fans are encouraged to follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for the latest updates, video highlights, analysis and more. The announcement also invites supporters to join the Super 6 competition for a chance to win £1 million, with free entry available.