Sebastien Pocognoli Names First Scotland Squad

A clear break from the World Cup squad

The report says only 14 members of Scotland’s World Cup group have been retained. That turnover points to a deliberate reset rather than a simple continuation of the previous regime.

Luis Binks, Colby Donovan, Luke Graham, Jon McCracken, Josh McPake, Robbie Ure and Stephen Welsh are reportedly in line for senior debuts. The selections also underline Scotland’s increasingly international player pool, with squad members based across England, Croatia, Denmark, Wales, Italy, Spain, Saudi Arabia and the United States.

Pocognoli’s early challenge will be balancing experimentation with results. Scotland’s first matches since the World Cup will offer limited time for a new structure to settle.

McBurnie returns on current form

The most recognisable selection is Oli McBurnie. The report says the Hull City striker has been recalled after a strong campaign in the Championship, where he scored 17 goals and netted the promotion play-off final winner.

He has also reportedly appeared in each of Hull’s opening four Premier League matches this season. That gives Pocognoli a centre-forward with recent competitive rhythm, while McBurnie’s previous Scotland experience - 17 caps, with his last appearance coming against the Faroe Islands in March 2021 - could help him adapt quickly.

Opportunities at both ends of the squad

Robbie Ure is another selection with momentum behind it. The update credits the former Scotland Under-20 striker with 15 goals in 15 league matches for Sirius before his move to Sevilla, although his eligibility for Ukraine adds another layer to his international future.

The report also says Scott McTominay is absent while recovering from surgery, leaving Scotland without one of its most established midfield figures.

Pocognoli’s first three fixtures will show whether this youthful reset can produce a coherent team - and which of the seven uncapped players can turn opportunity into a permanent role.