The key talking points from Pocognoli's bold Scotland squad

WHAT HAPPENED
Sebastien Pocognoli named a 28-player Scotland squad for his first international window, featuring six new call-ups and seven uncapped players. The selection has already attracted attention for its overhaul at the back and several unfamiliar faces, despite the squad not yet meeting or having played under the new coach.

Scotland begin competitive action in a Nations League match away to Slovenia on 26 September, with that fixture due to be shown live on the BBC.

KEY CONTEXT
Pocognoli has most recently worked with teams that predominantly use a back three at Union Saint-Gilloise and Monaco, and he has said his preferred style influenced his selection. That emphasis explains a clear focus on centre-backs who can both play out from the back and cover ground when a high line is used.

There were no fresh additions among the goalkeepers. Angus Gunn, now at San Jose Earthquakes, has 25 caps and is the likely first choice; Falkirk’s Scott Bain is noted for his comfort with the ball at his feet, while Jon McCracken is playing regularly for Bradford City. Scott McTominay is absent from the squad following a recent heart procedure. Midfield largely retains experienced figures, with a return for Billy Gilmour and the inclusion of Lennon Miller.

WHY IT MATTERS
The squad signals a defensive refresh under a coach who prefers aggressive, possession-oriented football and a high defensive line. Introducing multiple uncapped centre-backs and full‑back/wing‑back options suggests Pocognoli is prioritising players who fit his tactical requirements rather than only established names.

Retaining experienced midfielders alongside the return of Gilmour—who missed the finals through injury—means continuity in the middle of the park even as defensive personnel are reshuffled. How these personnel choices translate into Pocognoli’s first competitive XI will be an early test of his stated philosophy.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- The squad’s first collective work and selection decisions for the Nations League opener in Slovenia on 26 September.
- Which goalkeeper Pocognoli entrusts between the posts and whether his preference for ball-playing keepers influences that pick.
- How the new and uncapped centre-backs fare in training and whether wing-back roles are settled by players like Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney and the options on the opposite flank (Aaron Hickey, Nathan Patterson, Colby Donovan).
- The integration of Billy Gilmour and Lennon Miller into the midfield setup with established figures such as John McGinn, Ryan Christie, Kenny McLean and Lewis Ferguson.

KEY FACTS
- Pocognoli’s first Scotland squad contains 28 players, including six new call-ups and seven uncapped players.
- Scotland’s Nations League campaign opens in Slovenia on 26 September (live on the BBC).