Pocognoli opts for Scotland ‘tidy-up’ as Euro 2028 qualifying looms

Scotland manager Sébastien Pocognoli says he wants to refine, rather than overhaul, his side as they prepare for two Nations League matches that will shape their promotion hopes and come ahead of Euro 2028 qualifying.

Scotland host North Macedonia before travelling to Switzerland to finish their Group B1 campaign. They are third and need at least four points to have any chance of reaching the promotion play-offs; one point would be enough to avoid relegation, BBC Sport reports.

Pocognoli’s first four matches brought a 0-0 draw in Slovenia, a 2-0 win in North Macedonia, then defeats by Switzerland and Slovenia. Scotland’s 2-1 loss to Slovenia at Hampden drew sharp criticism from captain Andy Robertson, who said his team had been “outfought” and were “not good enough”. Scotland’s mixed start under Pocognoli

Pocognoli said he was pleased with parts of the opening camp, but acknowledged the need for results. “There’s no reason to change everything because I was happy with the camp,” he said after naming his latest squad. He described the priority as finding a balance between making changes, experimenting and winning.

The new selection includes the returns of Scott McTominay, Che Adams and Kieran Tierney, while Rangers left-back James Penrice has earned his first call-up. Pocognoli said Penrice’s inclusion was a “logical choice” given absences on the left and the player’s quality and suitability for the system.

The two matches are also part of the build-up to Euro 2028, which Scotland will co-host with England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland. Pocognoli called qualification “the big job” and said he wanted to use the camp to learn more about his squad. The qualifying draw is due to take place in Belfast on 6 December, with group matches starting in March.