Kris Boyd backs Oli McBurnie to lead Scotland's attack under new manager Pocognoli

Former Scotland striker Kris Boyd has endorsed Oli McBurnie to spearhead the national team's attack during the upcoming Nations League quadruple-header. Boyd believes the 30-year-old Hull City forward has matured and is ready for a return to the international setup.

McBurnie, who previously represented Scotland 16 times between 2018 and 2021, was omitted by former head coach Steve Clarke after failing to score. However, he has rediscovered his scoring touch, netting 19 goals in all competitions last season to help Hull City secure promotion to the Premier League. He has been a consistent performer for Hull in their current top-flight campaign, with the team sitting eighth.

With Che Adams currently sidelined due to injury, an opportunity exists for a new center-forward to establish themselves under new Scotland boss Sebastien Pocognoli. Boyd suggested McBurnie should be given the starting nod for the upcoming match against Slovenia.

"He looks mature now, and is probably ready to come back into the Scotland set-up and lead that line," Boyd stated in comments provided by Ladbrokes.

Boyd also expressed optimism for other players, mentioning James Wilson and Robbie Ure. He highlighted Stoke City's Luke Graham as a young talent with a bright future, predicting he could become a regular starter for Scotland.

"He's strong, and so powerful from that left-hand side. I wouldn't be surprised if he's a regular starter for Scotland, if not in this international break, then maybe the next one," Boyd said of Graham, who joined Stoke from Dundee in the summer.

Reflecting on the national team's management, Boyd acknowledged the SFA's appointment of Pocognoli as bold. He cautioned against excessive pressure on the younger players transitioning to international football but stressed that victories are essential for the new manager to win over fans and continue Scotland's recent success in qualifying for major tournaments.