Pocognoli focus on Scotland tidy-up as Euros loom

What the report says

Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has said he is not looking to overhaul his team after a mixed opening international camp, instead describing the next phase as a tidy-up job ahead of important matches. BBC Sport reported that the Belgian, appointed after Steve Clarke’s exit, is aiming for continuity as Scotland prepare for a Nations League double-header against North Macedonia and Switzerland.

The article said Scotland’s first four games under Pocognoli produced encouraging away wins and performances, but also a heavy home defeat to Switzerland and a disappointing loss to Slovenia at Hampden. That latter result prompted criticism over Scotland’s shape and defensive work, yet Pocognoli said he was pleased with much of the first camp and wants to keep building on the positive elements while improving in key moments.

His latest squad includes returns for Scott McTominay, Che Adams and Kieran Tierney, while Rangers left-back James Penrice has received a first senior call-up. Pocognoli said Penrice fits the system he wants to use, while Lennon Miller has been left out again. The coach stressed that good results are important not only for Nations League survival and promotion hopes, but also as preparation for Scotland’s wider qualifying campaign for Euro 2028, which he described as the bigger task ahead.