Scotland need points as Pocognoli prepares to name squad

Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli is due to name his second squad on Tuesday, with his side needing at least four points from their final two Nations League matches to retain a chance of reaching the promotion play-offs.

Scotland host North Macedonia, bottom of League B1, before travelling to face leaders Switzerland. Even with four points, they would also need Slovenia to drop points in both of its remaining games. A defeat at Hampden could leave Scotland at risk of finishing bottom and being relegated to League C, BBC Sport reports.

The squad is expected to include the return of midfielder Scott McTominay, who missed Pocognoli’s first selection. BBC Sport says the Napoli player has scored four goals since returning from minor heart surgery. Fellow midfielder Kenny McLean is a doubt after making only one substitute appearance for Norwich since withdrawing from the previous squad with an injury.

At centre-back, Scott McKenna is likely to miss out after Dinamo Zagreb ruled him out for two weeks. Luke Graham is among the possible alternatives after helping Stoke to three consecutive Championship matches without conceding, while Kieran Tierney is back playing regularly for Celtic after injury.

Goalkeeper Scott Bain’s strong display in Falkirk’s win over Celtic has strengthened his case, as first-choice Angus Gunn was left on the bench for San Jose Earthquakes at the weekend. Up front, Che Adams could return after scoring twice in four games for Torino. Oli McBurnie has also made a case for selection with his first two goals of the season for Hull City, though the club have gone eight matches without a win.

BBC Sport notes that some decisions may be harder when choosing the starting line-up than when selecting the squad. Scotland’s final two fixtures leave little room for error if they are to stay in the promotion play-off picture.