Robbie Ure expressed genuine excitement after his atypical journey through the football world earned him a spot in 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. In 2023 he transferred to Belgian giants Anderlecht, seeking the essential game time and experience that had eluded him in Scotland.
After a season in Belgium, Ure ventured further north to Sweden, signing for IK Sirius. It was there that he truly flourished, netting an impressive 31 goals in just 50 appearances. His prolific scoring record attracted attention from clubs across the continent, and during the summer transfer window he became a highly coveted target. Ultimately, La Liga side Sevilla secured his services for an initial fee of £5.5 million, a testament to his rapid ascent and the belief that he could thrive at a higher level.
The move to Spain proved to be a catalyst for his international ambitions. Within weeks of joining Sevilla, Ure received his first senior call‑up to represent Scotland, a milestone he described as the culmination of three years of relentless hard work and adaptation to new cultures and playing styles. "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," he told Sky Sports News. Reflecting on his decisions, he added, "Looking back now, it’s clear that it was the right decision to make." Ure acknowledged that his route is unusual for a Scottish player.
While many fans might assume his overseas adventure began only recently, he clarified that it has been a three‑year odyssey involving moves to Belgium, Sweden and now Spain. "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 said.
He also expressed optimism about the new managerial regime under Pocognoli. "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," Ure remarked, eager to prove his worth to the coach who is reshaping the national side. Pocognoli’s first‑ever Scotland squad is markedly different from Steve Clarke’s World Cup‑ending lineup, with twelve former regulars omitted.
Notably, none of the forwards who have been plying their trade in Major League Soccer made the cut, opening the door for Ure to stake his claim among the attacking options. "We need to bring fresh energy, hard work as well and try to play how the new gaffer wants us to play," Ure explained, emphasizing the collective desire to adapt to a new tactical philosophy.
He added, "For the strikers, the obvious one is we want to score goals. But there’s more than that, and we’re trying to get as much information and time on the pitch as we can to really implement how the new gaffer wants us to play." The upcoming fixtures will provide the perfect platform for the revamped side to showcase its style.
The Pocognoli era officially kicks off in Ljubljana on Saturday, followed by a high‑profile friendly against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. Scotland’s schedule continues with a trip to North Macedonia on 3 October, before returning to Glasgow for a second encounter with Slovenia on 6 October. The team is also preparing for the Nations League campaign, having been relegated from League A after a play‑off defeat to Greece last year and now competing in the second tier. Pocognoli’s vision, as described by Ure, centres on intelligent, space‑aware 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," Ure noted.
The full squad list reflects a blend of domestic and overseas talent. Goalkeepers include Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). Defenders range from Luis Binks (Brøndby) and Josh Doig (Sassuolo) to established names like Andy Robertson (Tottenham) and Scott McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb). The midfield features Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli) and John McGinn (Aston Villa) among others.
Up front, alongside Ure, are Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Oli McBurnie (Hull City) and James Wilson (Hearts). Fans can stay updated through Sky Sports’ WhatsApp channel, which delivers the latest news, videos, analysis and more. The upcoming fixtures are slated 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, and Scotland vs Slovenia on 6 October at 19:45. Additional matches later in the year include Scotland vs North Macedonia on 13 November and Switzerland vs Scotland on 16 November, both kicking off at 19:45.
Beyond the on‑field action, supporters are invited to participate in the Super 6 promotion, offering a chance to win £1 million with free entry. Robbie Ure’s story underscores how perseverance, willingness to embrace unfamiliar environments, and consistent performance can open doors at the highest level, and his inclusion in the squad signals a fresh chapter for Scottish football under a new managerial direction.