McGinn urges patience with Pocognoli project

Scotland captain John McGinn has warned supporters that it might take some time for the team to gel under new head coach Sebastian Pocognoli. Pocognoli, who arrived with a stellar reputation from his title success with Union Saint-Gilloise, has been tasked with implementing a more attacking style and integrating fresh faces into the squad.

McGinn stressed that unity and patience are required for the new system to take root, acknowledging the frustration of supporters but urging them to allow the younger players time to settle. He highlighted the performance of defender Luke Graham as a positive sign of the squad’s evolution under the new manager.

The Aston Villa captain was speaking after scoring in a victory over North Macedonia, a match in which he believes Scotland created enough chances to have been more comfortable. His goal took his international tally to 24 goals.

McGinn insisted that the entire squad must buy into Pocognoli’s detailed approach to avoid the project falling apart. He added that while the team knows they need to play better, they are committed to delivering an exciting style of football.