Luis Binks, the 25‑year‑old centre‑back who captains Brøndby in Denmark, has finally realized a lifelong ambition: representing Scotland at senior level. After years of featuring for both Scotland and England at under‑21 level, Binks accepted the invitation from new Scotland manager Sébastien Pocognoli without a moment’s hesitation.
In a candid interview with Sky Sports News, the defender explained that the decision was instinctive, rooted in a deep personal connection to the Scottish national team. "I’ve wanted to play for Scotland for years, and now the opportunity has come.
I’m just really proud," Binks said, his voice reflecting both excitement and a sense of fulfilment. The call‑up marks his first inclusion in a full senior squad, and he is among six uncapped players selected for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Slovenia, North Macedonia and Switzerland.
Binks highlighted that Pocognoli’s approach—eschewing any pressure to persuade dual‑national players—resonated with him. "If a manager had to try and convince me, I think that’s probably not the right thing for the player," he explained.
"I didn’t need any convincing; I was available." Binks’ pride stems not only from personal ambition but also from a feeling that his heart belongs to Scotland. "It’s where you feel your heart is and where you want to go. This was the route I wanted to take," he affirmed. The defender recalled his earlier experiences with the Scottish youth set‑up, noting the camaraderie and authenticity that left a lasting impression.
"Going back years ago, under‑16s when I went away with Scotland, the vibe was just so good. It felt like a proper team, just normal lads and you felt like you were playing with your mates. I knew there was always that feeling around it. I wanted to go and be a part of that again," he added.
The new Scotland side under Pocognoli is undergoing a significant overhaul. Twelve players from Steve Clarke’s final World Cup squad are absent, with only Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams missing due to injury.
Despite the turnover, Binks will find familiar faces in the camp, including Aaron Hickey, who was also with him in Bologna a few years ago when Hickey received his own call‑up. "It was a few years ago that I was with Aaron Hickey in Bologna and he got called up while we were there," Binks recalled, underscoring the continuity of relationships even amid broader changes. Scotland’s Nations League campaign will kick off in Ljubljana on Saturday against Slovenia, followed by a high‑profile clash with Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later.
The team will then travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a second meeting with Slovenia on 6 October. After a disappointing play‑off loss to Greece last year, Scotland were relegated from League A and will now compete in League B, aiming to regain their place among Europe’s elite.
Binks is realistic about the challenges ahead. "Obviously we want to get back to the A group of the Nations League, but there are a lot of new faces, a lot of new management, new ways of playing," he said.
He drew a parallel with his own club situation, where a new manager at Brøndby is still implementing his ideas. "I know what it’s like because I’ve got a new manager at my club now and it’s taking a bit of time, so I imagine it’s the same sort of process here. It’s just about getting the players on board and buying into everything the manager wants to do," Binks explained. The defender believes the squad is already showing the right attitude.
"It’s been early days, but I think everyone is fully on board and believes in what we can do as a country," he said, emphasizing collective belief over individual star power. The roster for the upcoming fixtures includes a blend of seasoned professionals and promising youngsters: 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). Beyond the tactical and personnel aspects, Binks highlighted the emotional significance of wearing the Scottish jersey.
He recalled his first under‑21 appearance for Scotland, describing the moment as a validation of his long‑standing desire to represent the nation. "When you finally get the call, it’s more than just a professional milestone; it’s a personal triumph," he said. This sentiment is echoed by many dual‑national players who weigh heritage, personal identity and career prospects when deciding which country to represent. The upcoming matches will test Pocognoli’s vision.
The first game against Slovenia in Ljubljana offers a chance to gauge the squad’s cohesion in a neutral setting. The subsequent home fixture against Switzerland at Hampden Park will be a litmus test for the team’s ability to compete against higher‑ranked opposition. If Scotland can secure positive results, they will set a solid foundation for a promotion push in the next Nations League cycle. Fans can follow the action through Sky Sports’ streaming options, including the flexible NOW service and the Sky Sports app, which provide personal video feeds for on‑the‑go viewing.
The broadcaster also encourages supporters to stay connected via WhatsApp for real‑time updates, video highlights, analysis and exclusive features. Key dates to remember: - Slovenia vs Scotland – 26 September, 14:00 GMT - Scotland vs Switzerland – 29 September, 19:45 GMT - North Macedonia vs Scotland – 3 October, 19:45 GMT - Scotland vs Slovenia – 6 October, 19:45 GMT - Scotland vs North Macedonia – 13 November, 19:45 GMT - Switzerland vs Scotland – 16 November, 19:45 GMT As Binks embarks on this new chapter, his words encapsulate the blend of pride, ambition and loyalty that defines his journey. "I’ve wanted to play for Scotland for years and now the opportunity has come. I’m just really proud," he concluded, a sentiment that will no doubt resonate with supporters across the country as they rally behind a refreshed, hopeful national side.