Striker Kieron Bowie eyes fresh start under Sebastien Pocognoli

In Skopje's National Arena, striker Kieron Bowie opened his Scotland account with a swift early strike, sealing a 2‑0 Nations League victory over North Macedonia on 4 October 2026. The 24‑year‑old hailed the goal as a fresh start under manager Sebastien Pocognoli and a chance to cement his role in Scotland's new‑look side.

By JOHN MCGARRY, SCOTTISH CHIEF SPORTS FEATURE WRITER, 4 October 2026. He reports on striker Kieron Bowie's determination to cement a place in Scotland's re‑built squad after the disappointment of missing the World Cup.

Bowie is currently on loan at Sassuolo from Verona in Italy, having featured in each of the Belgian manager's three matches to date, the last two as a starter. The loan has given him regular Serie A minutes, and he hopes the experience will sharpen his edge for Scotland.

Pocognoli's trust fuels Bowie's ambition

"Obviously the manager's come in and put a lot of trust in me to start the last two games," Bowie said. He added that Sebastien Pocognoli told him, "you don't need to prove yourself, just go and do what I know you can do." The striker feels that confidence is driving his performances.

From Hibs to Serie A

Bowie earned his first senior call‑up from Steve Clarke as a Hibernian player in June 2025, before moving to Verona for a reported £6 million fee in January. Four quick goals for Verona bolstered his case for a World Cup squad, but he was omitted from the final list. The setback left him determined to make up for lost time.

Reflecting on the omission, Bowie said, "I was disappointed, but you have to bounce back." He recalled receiving a message from Clarke confirming his exclusion and stressed that his performances in Serie A show he can still contribute at the highest level. The forward now views the Nations League as his platform to prove his worth.

The striker began his career at Raith Rovers in League One, then moved to Fulham and spent a loan spell at Northampton before swapping Easter Road for Serie A. He believes the higher standard of Italian football has pushed him into "another gear", and he feels Scottish fans will notice the change.

Bowie's strike in Skopje ended Scotland's four‑game goal drought and, in his view, carries the most meaning for the nation and the coach. "It tops the lot for me," he said, highlighting the goal's importance beyond the three points.

Meanwhile, veteran left‑back Andy Robertson celebrated his 100th Scotland appearance in the same match, receiving chants from travelling supporters inside the National Arena. His milestone underscores the growing experience within the Scottish side as it looks ahead to the remaining Nations League fixtures.