Amedspor form propels Scottish defender back into Scotland squad

David Bates has been recalled to the Scotland squad almost eight years after his last appearance, following a strong opening spell in Turkey. The 30‑year‑old centre‑back joins Sebastien Pocognoli’s squad after Luis Binks withdrew ahead of Nations League matches against North Macedonia on Friday and Switzerland on Monday.

Amedspor form fuels recall

Bates has started all 11 games for Amedspor this term as they have risen to third in the Turkish Super Lig.

He earned four caps under Alex McLeish while playing for Hamburg in 2018/19.

His last appearance was a 2‑0 Euro 2020 qualifying win over San Marino in March 2019, McLeish’s final match in charge.

The former Rangers defender joined Amedspor this summer after four years in Belgium with Mechelen and Standard Liege following his 2022 Aberdeen departure.

Brondby captain Luis Binks is the second centre‑back to exit Pocognoli’s squad, after Swansea’s Stephen Welsh was injured and replaced by Los Angeles FC’s Ryan Porteous last weekend.

Pocognoli said the double‑header is vital for preparing for Euro 2028 qualification, which may start in March if Scotland avoid Nations League play‑offs.

He added that the two games are the last package to ready the squad for a March start, that friendly fixtures could be useful for June, and that the ambition is to win play‑off games and build a winning culture.