Scotland Squad Assessment Ahead of Pocognoli's Debut
Key players are finding form, but some areas remain a concern for the new head coach.
Sebastien Pocognoli faces his first test as Scotland head coach on Saturday against Slovenia, with his squad showing a mixed bag of form across various positions.
Goalkeeping Stability
The goalkeeping position, a long-standing concern, appears to be solidifying. First-choice Angus Gunn is now a regular starter for San Jose Earthquakes after a summer move from Nottingham Forest. Scott Bain is performing well for Falkirk, and Jon McCracken has been instrumental in Bradford City's rise to the top of League One. Liam Kelly of Rangers is the only Scottish goalkeeper not currently playing club football.
Forward Options
The absence of Shankland and Adams has opened opportunities for new forwards. Oli McBurnie continues to feature for Hull City in the Premier League. Robbie Ure has been starting for Sevilla, and James Wilson has secured a first-team place at Heart of Midlothian. However, Kieron Bowie, Findlay Curtis, and Ben Gannon-Doak have seen limited minutes, often starting on the bench for their respective clubs.
Midfield and Wingers
Twenty-year-old Ben Gannon-Doak's lack of game time is noted, particularly given his contribution of pace. In contrast, Ryan Christie has seen increased minutes, starting his second game of the season, though he was substituted in Liverpool's win over his team. All seven of Pocognoli's central midfield options started their weekend fixtures. Billy Gilmour scored his second senior goal and was named man of the match in Napoli's draw with Fiorentina. Lewis Ferguson is consistently starting and captaining Bologna. Lennon Miller also featured in Udinese's defeat.
Defensive Concerns
In defense, right-back remains an area of concern for Scotland. Nathan Patterson made his second substitute appearance since joining Torino on loan. Aaron Hickey also came off the bench in Brentford's victory. While Colby Donovan started for Celtic, all three recognized left-backs – Kieran Tierney, Andy Robertson, and Josh Doig – experienced losses despite starting for their clubs. Scott McKenna was an unused substitute as Dinamo Zagreb secured a win.
Creative Spark
With only Gilmour scoring and Robertson and John McGinn providing assists over the weekend, Pocognoli may look to this experienced trio for creative impetus in the upcoming Nations League matches, which begin away to Slovenia on Saturday. Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn provided an assist in his team's defeat to Spurs.