The key talking points from Pocognoli's bold Scotland squad

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Sebastien Pocognoli has used his first Scotland squad to signal a fresh direction, naming a 28-man group with seven uncapped players and several notable returns. The Belgian, who is beginning his spell in charge with a Nations League match in Slovenia on 26 September, has chosen a mix of experience, youth and players suited to his preferred aggressive style. The article says the selection suggests changes across the pitch rather than a simple continuation of the previous set-up.

In goal, Angus Gunn remains the main established option, while the defensive group points to Pocognoli’s likely use of a back three, a system he has previously favoured in club management. Uncapped defenders Luis Binks, Stephen Welsh and Luke Graham have been added for depth, alongside familiar names such as Scott McKenna, Jack Hendry, Kieran Tierney and captain Andy Robertson. The squad also includes full-back options such as Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson.

Midfield is described as largely familiar, but with key absences and returns. Scott McTominay misses out after a heart procedure, while Billy Gilmour is back in the fold. John McGinn, Ryan Christie, Kenny McLean and Lewis Ferguson are included, as is Hearts player Josh McPake, who is listed as a midfielder despite often playing wide.

The attack features several uncapped or relatively new options, with no place for injured Che Adams and Lawrence Shankland or for Lyndon Dykes. Robbie Ure, Oli McBurnie, Kieron Bowie and teenage Hearts forward James Wilson are among those giving the squad a new look. BBC Sport says the next international window should offer a clearer sense of how Pocognoli’s ideas translate on the pitch.