Italy adaptation drives Lennon Miller under Scotland’s coach Pocognoli
Having spent a year adjusting to life in Italy after swapping Premiership side Motherwell for Serie A outfit Udinese, 19‑year‑old midfielder Lennon Miller now prepares to translate that Italian football culture into a role with Scotland as the national side embarks on a new era under Belgian coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
Lee Miller said at the launch of the revived Tennent’s Sixes that his son had "settled there now and the progression is going well". He added that the first season was always about "finding his feet, getting used to the language, the lifestyle and different things" and that Lennon had "had a decent first season and he's looking to really kick on now". The senior Miller praised his son's ability to adapt quickly to the Italian game.
Father's confidence
Miller missed a place in Steve Clarke's World Cup squad earlier this summer, a disappointment his father described as "hugely disappointing". Lee Miller said the setback can motivate the youngster as Scotland prepares for the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign. The campaign comprises four matches that will test the new coach's ideas.
New Belgian coach Sebastien Pocognoli has said that club form will be central to his selection policy for Scotland. Miller echoed this, declaring that "if you're performing well for your club, then the door is open to get a call‑up". Pocognoli believes his Belgian experience of integrating young talent will shape the squad.
Pocognoli says Scotland stay on track after Slovenia defeat
Younger energy for Scotland
Miller believes the fresh enthusiasm of young players can revitalize the national side, noting that "the young ones coming through bring a freshness. They've got enthusiasm. They play with no fear". He added that the long‑standing core "sometimes goes stale a little bit". Lee Miller also suggested that the young lads will be given genuine opportunities under the new regime.
Scotland's opponents have suffered a blow, losing a £74 million star ahead of their Nations League clash. The loss removes a key attacking option from the opposition's line‑up. Such a development could affect the competitive balance of the upcoming fixtures.
Media and subscription note
The piece appears as a comment in The Scotsman, which promotes a digital subscription that offers unlimited access and fewer ads. The subscription also provides loyalty rewards and additional premium content. The article also references the SPFL Tennent’s Sixes tournament at Braehead Arena in Glasgow on 21 September 2026.
Having navigated the Italian adjustment period, Miller now aims to cement his place for both Udinese and Scotland. His progress illustrates how a year in Serie A can prepare a young midfielder for the challenges of a new national era under Pocognoli. Miller says he wants to become a regular starter for the Scotland team.