Robbie Ure expressed genuine excitement after his atypical journey through the football world culminated in a place on 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 senior side prompted a bold move abroad to Belgian giants Anderlecht in 2023. After a brief stint in Belgium, Ure transferred to Swedish outfit IK Sirius, where he quickly made an impact by netting 31 goals in just 50 appearances.
His prolific scoring record attracted interest from several clubs across Europe during the summer transfer window. Ultimately, he secured a move to LaLiga side Sevilla, signing for an initial fee of £5.5 million last month. The rapid progression from the Scottish academy to one of Spain's top clubs has now been rewarded with his first senior call‑up for the Scotland national team.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Ure reflected on his decision to leave Rangers: "At Rangers I didn't believe I could go further and I needed a step before the step and Anderlecht was able to give me that. Looking back now, it's clear that it was the right decision to make." He acknowledged that his route is unusual for a Scottish player. "A lot of people think it's only happened in the last four weeks, but for me it's been three years of working hard and moving to different countries and trying to get that opportunity.
It's been quite long but it's been enjoyable," he added. Ure also commented on his optimism about the new manager's plans. "I did think there would be opportunities with the new gaffer. I'm happy to be involved in his first camp and hopefully I can show him what I can do," he said, emphasizing his desire to prove himself at the international level.
Pocognoli's Scotland side represents a significant overhaul, with twelve players from Steve Clarke's World Cup‑ending squad omitted. Notably, none of the forwards who opted to play in Major League Soccer made the list, leaving space for Ure to seize the chance. "We need to bring fresh energy, hard work and try to play the way the new gaffer wants us to play," Ure explained.
"For the strikers, the obvious goal is to score, but there is more to it. We're trying to get as much information and time on the pitch as we can to really implement his ideas." The new era under Pocognoli officially kicks off in Ljubljana on Saturday, with a friendly against Switzerland at Hampden Park scheduled three days later. The squad will then travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a second encounter with 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.
Pocognoli's philosophy, as described by Ure, focuses on intelligent football: "He wants us to play smart football, identify where the spaces are and be close together as well and a lot more things. It's early, and I think as this week and next week go by you'll probably be able to see a little bit more of what he's trying to get across." 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). Ure's inclusion underscores the growing trend of Scottish talent seeking development outside the UK, proving that perseverance and adaptability can open doors to both club and country.
As the team prepares for its upcoming fixtures—Slovenia vs Scotland on 26 September, Scotland vs Switzerland on 29 September, North Macedonia vs Scotland on 3 October, and a final friendly against Slovenia on 6 October—Ure hopes his unconventional path will inspire other young players to embrace new challenges and broaden their horizons. Fans can stay updated via Sky Sports' WhatsApp channel for the latest news, videos, analysis and more. Additionally, a promotional Super 6 competition offers a chance to win £1 million, with free entry for those who wish to try their luck.