Robbie Ure expressed genuine excitement that his atypical journey through the football world has culminated in a place on manager Sébastien Pocognoli’s inaugural Scotland squad. The 22‑year‑old forward’s career trajectory began in the Rangers youth system, but limited chances to break into the first team prompted a bold move abroad to Belgian side Anderlecht in 2023.
After a brief stint in Belgium, Ure ventured north to Sweden, signing for IK Sirius where he quickly made a name for himself by netting 31 goals in just 50 appearances. His prolific scoring record attracted interest from several clubs across the continent during the summer transfer window.
In early September, Ure completed a transfer to La Liga club Sevilla for an initial fee reported to be around £5.5 million. The rapid progression from the Scottish youth ranks to a top‑flight Spanish side has not only highlighted his talent but also earned him his first senior call‑up for Scotland. Speaking to Sky Sports News, Ure reflected on the decisions that shaped his career: “At Rangers I didn’t feel I could progress further, so I needed an intermediate step, and Anderlecht gave me that platform.” He added that, looking back, the choice to leave Scotland was undeniably the right one.
Ure acknowledged that his route is unusual for a Scottish player. “Many people think this kind of move has only happened in the last few weeks, but for me it’s been three years of hard work, moving between countries and chasing the opportunity to play at the highest level,” he said. He described the journey as lengthy yet enjoyable, and he remains optimistic about impressing the new national team manager.
“I thought there would be chances under the new coach, and I’m delighted to be part of his first training camp. I hope I can show him what I’m capable of on the pitch.” Pocognoli’s Scotland side represents a significant overhaul from the previous regime.
Twelve players who featured in Steve Clarke’s final World Cup squad were omitted, and none of the forwards who moved to Major League Soccer made the list. Ure sees this as a chance to stake his claim. “We need fresh energy, a strong work ethic, and we must adapt to the style the new boss wants us to play,” he explained.
“For strikers, the obvious goal is to score, but there’s more to it – we’re gathering as much information as possible and using training time to embed the new tactical approach.” The new era under Pocognoli officially begins with a friendly in Ljubljana on Saturday, followed by a home match against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. After that, the squad will travel to North Macedonia on 3 October before returning to Glasgow for a second encounter with Slovenia on 6 October. Scotland’s recent relegation from Nations League A after a play‑off loss to Greece means they will compete in the second tier of this year’s competition, adding extra motivation for the revamped group.
Pocognoli’s philosophy emphasizes intelligent football, spatial awareness and collective cohesion. “He wants us to play smart, identify the gaps, stay compact and execute a range of tactical nuances,” Ure noted.
“It’s still early days, but as the weeks go by we’ll see more of what he’s trying to instill.” The squad list features 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).
The defensive line comprises 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) and Stephen Welsh (Swansea City). In midfield, Ryan Christie (Bournemouth), Lewis Ferguson (Bologna), Billy Gilmour (Napoli), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Josh McPake (Hearts), Lennon Miller (Udinese) and Kristie Montgomery (Blackburn Rovers) are named.
The attacking options feature Kieron Bowie (Sassuolo), Findlay Curtis (Rangers), Ben Gannon‑Doak (Bournemouth), Oli McBurnie (Hull City), Robbie Ure (Sevilla) and James Wilson (Hearts). Fans can follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp for up‑to‑date news, video highlights, in‑depth analysis and more.
Upcoming fixtures include 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 a return clash with Slovenia on 6 October at 19:45. Later in the year, Scotland will meet North Macedonia again on 13 November and face Switzerland on 16 November, both kick‑off at 19:45. As the national team embarks on this new chapter, Ure’s unconventional path serves as a testament to perseverance and adaptability, and he hopes his story inspires other young Scots to consider broader horizons in pursuit of their footballing dreams.