World Cup YOUTH
Sebastien Pocognoli eyes Scottish talent as Robbie Ure leads
At the training ground in Glasgow, the Scotland squad gathered under the watchful eye of 39‑year‑old Belgian Sebastien Pocognoli, preparing for their first match since the World Cup exit this summer. The Nations League clash with Slovenia this weekend marks the debut of several uncapped youngsters, including Robbie Ure, Luke Graham and Colby Donovan.
Pocognoli’s youth‑focused overhaul
Since taking charge, the 39‑year‑old Belgian has shaken up the Scotland squad, dropping stalwarts such as Grant Hanley, Lyndon Dykes and Che Adams. Injuries have also forced Kenny McLean and Kieran Tierney out, opening space for uncapped names. Among the newcomers, Robbie Ure, Luke Graham and Colby Donovan have earned their first call‑ups. Scotland now face Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia in the Nations League, a test for the fledgling group.
Emerging prospects in the Under‑21 and club ranks
The article lists ten Scottish youngsters who could follow the footsteps of Sevilla hit‑man Robbie Ure into the senior side. One of the youngest squads in recent memory, the list includes players from the Under‑21 set‑up and various club loans, each hoping to catch Pocognoli’s eye over the coming months.
Emilio Lawrence, 21, is a Manchester City prospect who has spent the last nine months on loan at Luton Town in EFL League One. He scored in Luton’s EFL Trophy win over Stockport County in March and has been deployed both in midfield and at left wing‑back. The Hatters are chasing promotion, and continued progress could bring him to Pocognoli’s radar.
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Liam McFarlane, also 21, is a Hearts goalkeeper currently on loan at Partick Thistle. He was invited to train with the national squad at the World Cup last summer and is regarded as Scotland’s best young custodian. While it may be premature to label him the future number one, strong performances could see him added to future senior call‑ups.
Kyle Glasgow, 16, is a Rangers academy midfielder who is gaining experience on loan at Alloa Athletic. In his first eight games he has contributed four goals or assists, earning rave reviews. Though a senior Scotland call‑up remains years away, his early impact marks him as one of the nation’s brightest prospects.
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Alfie Osborne, 18, moved from Hearts to Premier League side Chelsea in the summer and has already featured for the Blues’ academy. He captains the Scotland Under‑19 team and has drawn comparisons with former Manchester City centre‑back John Stones. His early leadership and performances suggest he could soon be on Pocognoli’s shortlist.