Pocognoli to name first Scotland squad with fresh faces eyed

Scotland prepare new era as coach Pocognoli readies first Nations League squad

Sebastien Pocognoli will announce his first Scotland squad on Tuesday for the upcoming Nations League B fixtures against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia, signalling potential changes from the selection patterns of his predecessor Steve Clarke. The Belgian coach inherits contention in goalkeeping and outfield positions as established players recover from injury or face club uncertainty, while a number of uncapped and fringe players push for inclusion.

Goalkeeping remains a notable issue: Angus Gunn started at the World Cup and has been playing regularly for San Jose Earthquakes, while Craig Gordon has retired and Liam Kelly has not featured for Rangers under Derek McInnes. Scott Bain, who earned his fourth cap against Ivory Coast in April and has impressed for Falkirk, and 21-year-old Liam McFarlane, on loan at Partick Thistle after serving as a training goalkeeper at the World Cup, are emerging options for the squad.

Defensive selection could see a transition as well. Grant Hanley is managing an injury and John Souttar has not been included in Rangers squads this season. Stephen Welsh’s form in the Championship with Swansea and former under-21 leadership are noted, while Luke Graham and Luis Binks present alternative centre-back profiles, with Binks captaining Brondby and having prior youth representation for Scotland.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The reporting highlights a potential squad refresh based on available squad absences, recent club form and youth progression described in the source. Multiple goalkeeping options and several defensive, midfield and forward candidates are presented as plausible selections for Pocognoli, grounded strictly in the details provided about player club situations, recent performances and prior international involvement.

Midfield considerations center on Billy Gilmour’s return from a knee injury and his likely inclusion after appearances for Napoli, alongside Lennon Miller and Josh Mulligan, both noted for prior involvement with Scotland’s setup and recent club-level performances. Scott McTominay’s recovery from heart surgery is mentioned as context for midfield opportunities.

Striking options are less settled beyond Che Adams, who has scored in Serie A for Torino. With Lawrence Shankland injured and Lyndon Dykes’ future role questioned, names such as Oli McBurnie, Robbie Ure, Kieron Bowie and club-performing forwards from Hearts — James Wilson, Calvin Miller and Josh McPake — are listed as contenders based on form and recent transfers.

The source notes Pocognoli attended the Edinburgh derby to observe Josh Mulligan and that public discussion surrounds several young full-backs and attackers, including Colby Donovan, Aaron Hickey, Nathan Patterson, Max Johnston and Josh Doig, any of whom could be considered depending on the coach’s selections.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• Sebastien Pocognoli will name his first Scotland squad for Nations League B on Tuesday.
• Goalkeeper spots are contested following Gordon’s retirement and mixed club form for incumbents.
• Defensive, midfield and forward roles could feature uncapped or fringe players based on recent club performances and prior youth involvement.