Pocognoli picks six newcomers, including Sevilla striker Robbie Ure

Sébastien Pocognoli, the new Scotland national team coach, has immediately let a fresh wind blow through his very first squad by calling up six players for the first time, including the 22‑year‑old former Anderlecht striker Robbie Ure, who recently moved to Sevilla for millions.

New faces and the first squad

Reports differ on the exact number of newcomers: one source reports six debutants, another mentions five. Pocognoli has thoroughly examined the player group in his very first squad and immediately let a fresh wind blow. A breakthrough in the first team did not materialise: the Scot was on the pitch for only one minute for the first eleven.

Previously, the Belgian was the coach of Union Saint‑Gillies, where he was known for his strict approach. He also gained experience at Union SG and at AS Monaco before taking charge of the Scottish national team.

Among the newcomers is Robbie Ure, a 22‑year‑old former Anderlecht striker who recently transferred to Sevilla for €6.5 million. Ure was under contract with Anderlecht from September 2023 until March 2025 and played 39 matches for the RSCA Futures before moving to Sevilla via Sweden.

Experience, injuries and Nations League

The squad also includes Stephen Welsh of Swansea City, Celtic right‑back Colby Donovan, Luis Binks of Brøndby, Stoke City defender Luke Graham and Josh McPake of Hearts. In addition, Oli McBurnie of Hull City returns after an absence since 2021.

Pocognoli says Scotland stay on track after Slovenia defeat

Experienced players remain present, such as Andy Robertson of Tottenham Hotspur and Jack Hendry of Al‑Ettifaq. Central midfielder Scott McTominay of Napoli is absent due to a heart‑rhythm disorder, while other regulars such as Billy Gilmour of Aston Villa have been selected.

Goalkeeper selection falls on Scott Bain (Falkirk), Angus Gunn (San Jose Earthquakes), Liam Kelly (Rangers) and Jon McCracken (Bradford City). These keepers provide a mix of domestic and foreign experience.

Scotland will play four matches in Nations League B between 26 September and 6 October, twice against Slovenia and once each against Switzerland and North Macedonia.

‘The most important thing is that I select players based on the style of play I want to bring onto the field,’ Pocognoli said at the press conference. He added: ‘If I have to convince a player to represent Scotland, he will not be there.’