Robbie Ure expressed genuine excitement after his atypical journey through the football world culminated in a call‑up to Sebastien Pocognoli’s inaugural Scotland squad. The 22‑year‑old forward began his development within the Rangers youth system, but limited opportunities to break into the first team prompted a bold move abroad to Belgian side Anderlecht in 2023. After a brief stint in Belgium, Ure transferred to Swedish outfit IK Sirius, where his prolific scoring record—31 goals in 50 appearances—caught the eye of clubs throughout Europe during the summer transfer window.
His impressive form earned him a move to LaLiga club Sevilla, who secured his services for an initial fee of £5.5 million last month. The rapid progression of his career has now been rewarded with his first senior invitation to represent Scotland. Speaking to Sky Sports News, Ure reflected on his decision to leave Rangers: "At Rangers I didn’t feel I could progress any further, so I needed an intermediate step, and Anderlecht gave me that platform.
Looking back, it’s clear that it was the right choice." He acknowledged that his route is unusual for a Scottish player. "Many people think this kind of path has only happened in the last few weeks, but for me it’s been three years of hard work, moving between countries and chasing the chance to play at a higher level. It’s been a long journey, but an enjoyable one." Ure also commented on his expectations under the new manager: "I did think there would be opportunities with the new gaffer. I’m pleased to be part of his first training camp and hope I can demonstrate what I can contribute on the pitch." The Scotland side under Pocognoli represents a significant overhaul, with twelve players from Steve Clarke’s World Cup‑ending squad omitted.
Notably, none of the forwards who have transferred to clubs in the United States are included, leaving a clear opening for Ure to make his mark. He added, "We need to inject fresh energy and a strong work ethic, and play the way the new manager wants us to. For the strikers, the obvious goal is to score, but there’s more to it.
We’re trying to gather as much information and playing time as possible to fully implement the new tactical approach." The Pocognoli era officially kicks off with a training camp in Ljubljana on Saturday, followed by a friendly against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. The squad will then travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a match against Slovenia on 6 October. Scotland’s recent demotion from Nations League A after a play‑off loss to Greece means they will compete in the second tier of this year’s competition. Ure highlighted the manager’s philosophy: "He wants us to play intelligent football, identify spaces, stay compact, and many other nuances.
It’s early days, but as the next week unfolds we’ll see more of what he’s trying to instill." The full squad list includes: Goalkeepers: Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers), Jon McCracken (Bradford City). Defenders: 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), Stephen Welsh (Swansea City). Midfielders: Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Josh McPake (Hearts), Lennon Miller (Udinese), Kristie Montgomery (Blackburn Rovers). Forwards: Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla), James Wilson (Hearts).
Fans can stay updated via Sky Sports’ WhatsApp channel for the latest news, video highlights, analysis and more. Upcoming fixtures are as follows: Slovenia vs Scotland on 26 September at 14:00, Scotland vs Switzerland on 29 September at 19:45, North Macedonia vs Scotland on 3 October at 19:45, Scotland vs Slovenia on 6 October at 19:45, Scotland vs North Macedonia on 13 November at 19:45, and Switzerland vs Scotland on 16 November at 19:45. Additionally, supporters are invited to participate in the Super 6 competition for a chance to win £1 million, with free entry available.