Luis Binks could barely contain his excitement when he received his first senior call‑up for Scotland. "I have wanted to wear the Scottish shirt for years, and now the chance is finally here.
I’m incredibly proud," he told Sky Sports News after the announcement. The 25‑year‑old defender, who has represented both England and Scotland at under‑21 level, said he did not need any persuasion from the new national team manager, Sebastien Pocognoli, when the Belgian coach included him in his inaugural squad.
Pocognoli, who took over after Steve Clarke’s tenure ended, named Binks among six newcomers for the Nations League fixtures against Slovenia, North Macedonia and Switzerland. The manager has been clear that he will not pressure dual‑eligible players to pick Scotland, a stance that resonated with Binks.
"If someone had to try to convince me, I think that would be the wrong approach for any player," Binks explained. "I was already available and eager – I have dreamed of playing for Scotland for a long time, and now the opportunity has arrived, so I feel a great sense of pride." The defender emphasized that his decision was driven by a deep personal connection rather than external influence.
"It’s where my heart lies and where I see my future. This is the path I have always wanted to follow," he added.
The sentiment reflects a broader shift within the Scottish set‑up, which now features a largely refreshed roster. Twelve members of Clarke’s final World Cup squad are absent, leaving only Scott McTominay, Lawrence Shankland and Che Adams sidelined through injury. Binks also noted that, while the environment under Pocognoli is new, there are familiar faces that make the transition smoother.
He recalled a previous experience in Bologna with fellow Scottish defender Aaron Hickey, who received a call‑up while they were both abroad. "Back then I was playing for the under‑21s and nothing much was happening at senior level, but Scotland has always been the team I wanted to represent," Binks said. He reflected on his time with the under‑16s, describing the atmosphere as "genuine and friendly, like playing with mates," which cemented his desire to return to the senior side. The upcoming Nations League campaign will kick off in Ljubljana on Saturday with a match against Switzerland, followed by a home game at Hampden Park three days later.
The squad will then travel to North Macedonia on October 3 before concluding the group stage back in Glasgow against Slovenia on October 6. Scotland’s recent demotion from League A after a play‑off loss to Greece means they will be competing in League B this season, with the aim of regaining a spot in the top tier. Binks acknowledged the challenges of rebuilding a team under new management.
"We all want to get back into League A, but there are many new faces, a new coaching staff and fresh tactics to adapt to," he said. Drawing a parallel with his club situation – he recently joined Brøndby under a new manager – Binks noted that adjustment periods are normal. "It takes time for everyone to settle in and embrace the manager’s vision," he observed.
"So far, the players seem fully committed and believe in what we can achieve together for Scotland." The full squad list, as announced, includes a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talents: 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). Fans can follow the team’s progress through Sky Sports’ various platforms, including a dedicated WhatsApp channel for the latest news, videos and analysis. The Nations League schedule is as follows: - 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 In addition to the on‑field action, Sky Sports is running a Super 6 competition offering a chance to win £1 million, with free entry for fans.
Binks’ story underscores the personal pride and national ambition that drive Scotland’s renewed campaign, and his enthusiasm suggests he will be a valuable addition as the team strives to climb back to the top of European competition.