Pocognoli’s vote of confidence validates Angus Gunn’s MLS switch
Thirty‑year‑old Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn says his summer transfer to Major League Soccer vindicates the confidence shown by new Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli, after he featured in all three of Scotland’s World Cup matches this summer. The move came after a period on the bench at Nottingham Forest, prompting concerns over his international future.
Comment on his decision underscores the need for regular club football. Gunn believes the MLS switch offers the platform to retain his Scotland role. The move came after a period of limited minutes at his English club.
From bench at Nottingham Forest to MLS
Gunn spent the first part of the season on the bench at the City Ground, unable to secure regular first‑team action with Nottingham Forest. He told the press that the situation could not continue if he wanted to keep his Scotland place. He had previously solidified his status as Steve Clarke’s number one goalkeeper over the last couple of months.
“I was in talks with them for quite a while, to be honest,” Gunn said. “I went into Forest at the start of last season and they signed another keeper, which pushed me back. I tried to leave in January for more games before the tournament, but that never materialised.” The lack of minutes prompted him to explore options abroad.
Pocognoli’s faith validates the move
When new Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli arrived, he confirmed Gunn as his first‑choice goalkeeper. The keeper thanked Pocognoli for the faith that, in his view, vindicates the MLS move. He has retained his position as Scotland’s number one under Pocognoli.
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“It has been a good week with the new manager. The vibe around the group is really positive,” Gunn explained. “Being picked by Pocognoli is very big for me, and regular football was essential.” Since the World Cup, he has added several games to his club schedule, which he says has given him a big boost.
Life in San Jose and MLS appeal
Gunn has settled at San Jose Earthquakes, signing a longer‑term contract that allows his family to adjust. His father, former Scotland international Bryan Gunn, now faces a ten‑hour flight to visit. He hopes to visit Northern California in the coming weeks to see his father.
“My wife has been amazing and the kids have got into schools quickly,” he said. “The longer contract gives us stability to focus on football.”
The MLS environment features a number of high‑profile attacking players, and familiar faces such as former Dundee United midfielder Ian Harke are already in the squad. A lot of the big stars are attacking players, so he must stay sharp behind the line. Gunn’s experience adds to the league’s growing mix of seasoned internationals and local talent.