Sebastien Pocognoli, the newly appointed manager of the Scotland national team, told Sky Sports that the time was right for a fresh approach, emphasizing that his inaugural squad possesses a "good mix" of talent and experience. The Belgian coach, who is meeting his players for the first time this week, has taken them to the sunny training facilities at La Manga in preparation for Scotland's opening Nations League fixture against Slovenia. In his first call‑up, Pocognoli handed five players their first full senior caps for Scotland. Among the newcomers is Blackburn Rovers midfielder Kristi Montgomery, who was added after the withdrawals of Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean created space in the roster.
The extended international break, which includes four Nations League matches, offers the new boss a valuable window to work with his group and imprint his ideas as the successor to Steve Clarke. "We have plenty of experience in the team, there are some new faces and young lads, and I think we have a good mix," Pocognoli explained to Sky Sports News.
"We need to make sure that the balance stays right, and to keep what makes the Scotland team really strong – the cohesion and the proper DNA – and that needs to stay intact." He went on to stress that the change was necessary at this juncture because the national side must evolve in line with its timelines and the style of play the coach wishes to install on the pitch. "It's also about performance at club level, injuries, and the need to adapt," he added.
"What was provided in the past is massive, but we must use it as a foundation for the future." Pocognoli highlighted the importance of striking the right equilibrium between seasoned veterans and emerging talent. "The experienced players will be crucial in guiding the younger ones, and from a coaching perspective we all need to be aligned on what we want to achieve together," he said. "I want to see a team that is truly united – attack together, defend together – that is the essence of the Scotland mentality." The Pocognoli era officially kicks off in Ljubljana on Saturday when Scotland face Slovenia, followed by a home clash with Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. After those games, the squad will travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a second encounter with Slovenia on 6 October.
Scotland were relegated from Nations League A after a play‑off loss to Greece last year and will compete in the second tier this season. Pocognoli, who is 39, believes there are many routes to success.
"In the Nations League, our aim is to stay competitive and, if possible, finish high enough to earn promotion back to League A," he said. "On the pitch we must recognise our leaders, give young players a chance, and maintain team cohesion." He also stressed the need to excite the supporters. "If we can combine attractive football with positive results, that’s why we do this job and I’ll be very happy," Pocognoli concluded. Below is the full squad list announced by the new manager: 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), Kristi Montgomery (Blackburn Rovers) Forwards: Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla), James Wilson (Hearts) The upcoming fixtures are scheduled as follows: - Slovenia vs Scotland – 26 September, kickoff 14:00 - Scotland vs Switzerland – 29 September, kickoff 19:45 - North Macedonia vs Scotland – 3 October, kickoff 19:45 - Scotland vs Slovenia – 6 October, kickoff 19:45 - Scotland vs North Macedonia – 13 November, kickoff 19:45 - Switzerland vs Scotland – 16 November, kickoff 19:45 Fans can stay up‑to‑date with Sky Sports via WhatsApp for the latest news, video highlights, analysis and more.
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