Luis Binks, the 25‑year‑old centre‑back who captains Brøndby IF, has finally earned his first senior call‑up for Scotland. The defender, who has represented both Scotland and England at under‑21 level, said he never needed any persuasion when new national team manager Sébastien Pocognoli invited him to join the squad for the Nations League fixtures against Slovenia, North Macedonia and Switzerland. "I’ve wanted to play for Scotland for years, and now the chance has arrived.
I’m incredibly proud," Binks told Sky Sports News. "It’s where my heart lies and where I want to be. No one had to convince me – I was already ready and eager to answer the call." Binks is one of six newcomers to Pocognoli’s first senior roster. The manager has made it clear that he will not pressure dual‑eligible players to pick Scotland, a stance that resonated with the Danish‑born, Scottish‑heritage defender.
"If a coach had to beg a player to choose a country, it probably isn’t the right environment for the player," Binks explained. "I didn’t need any coaxing; I was available and I wanted to wear the Scottish shirt." The selection marks a fresh start for Scotland under Pocognoli.
Twelve members of Steve Clarke’s World Cup‑qualifying squad are absent, with only Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams missing due to injury. Despite the turnover, Binks noted that some familiar faces remain within the camp, offering a sense of continuity.
He recalled a previous experience with fellow defender Aaron Hickey: "A few years ago we were both in Bologna and he got called up while we were there. I was playing for the U‑21s at the time and, although nothing materialised then, Scotland was always the team I wanted to represent." Binks reflected on his youth international experiences, describing the atmosphere as "proper" and "like playing with mates." He recalled his time with the Scotland U‑16s, saying the camaraderie and the vibe made him feel part of a genuine team, a feeling he hopes to recapture at senior level.
The upcoming schedule will see Scotland travel to Ljubljana for a match against Switzerland on September 29, followed by a trip to North Macedonia on October 3, and then a home game against Slovenia on October 6. The nation is currently competing in the Nations League B after being relegated from Group A following a play‑off loss to Greece last year. Pocognoli’s side will be eager to regain their place in the top tier.
Binks acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting the parallels between his club situation and the national team’s transition. "I’ve just got a new manager at Brøndby, and it’s taking time for everyone to adjust. I imagine it’s the same for the national team – new tactics, new leadership, new expectations.
It’s about getting the players on board and buying into the manager’s vision," he said. He added, "It’s still early days, but I feel everyone is fully committed and believes in what we can achieve together as a country." The full squad list released by Scotland 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). Scotland’s fixtures are set as follows: - Slovenia vs Scotland – 26 September, 14:00 BST - Scotland vs Switzerland – 29 September, 19:45 BST - North Macedonia vs Scotland – 3 October, 19:45 BST - Scotland vs Slovenia – 6 October, 19:45 BST - Scotland vs North Macedonia – 13 November, 19:45 BST - Switzerland vs Scotland – 16 November, 19:45 BST Fans can keep up with the latest updates, video highlights and in‑depth analysis by following Sky Sports on WhatsApp. The network also offers a flexible streaming option via the Sky Sports app, allowing supporters to watch live action on personal devices.
As Scotland embarks on this new chapter, Binks’ enthusiasm and sense of belonging underscore the emotional pull that the nation holds for players with dual eligibility. His journey from youth internationals to a senior debut illustrates the personal fulfillment that comes from representing the country that feels like home, regardless of where one’s club career may take them.