Squad Changes and Key Returns Under Pocognoli
Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has recalled midfielder Scott McTominay, defender Kieran Tierney, and striker Che Adams for the concluding UEFA Nations League fixtures against North Macedonia and Switzerland, according to reporting published by the BBC on November 3, 2026. McTominay missed the opening matches of Pocognoli’s tenure following a minor heart procedure in September, while Adams was sidelined with an adductor issue. Tierney also returns after withdrawing from the initial camp due to injury.
The squad selection features a first senior international call-up for left-back James Penrice. The 27-year-old has impressed during his loan spell at Rangers following a move from Greek club AEK Athens. Uncapped midfielder Kristi Montgomery, who joined the previous setup as a late addition, retains his place in the 26-man group after starting nearly every Championship fixture for Blackburn Rovers this season.
Group B1 Standing and Qualification Stakes
Scotland enter the final international window sitting third in Group B1 with four points from four matches. Group leaders Switzerland hold maximum points, while Slovenia sit three points ahead of the Scots. To secure second place and advance to the promotion play-offs, Pocognoli’s side require a minimum of four points from their remaining two fixtures. Conversely, avoiding defeat in at least one outing would secure enough points to fend off direct relegation threats.
The team will host North Macedonia at Hampden Park on November 13 before traveling to face Switzerland three days later on November 16. The fixtures also carry personal milestones, as captain Andy Robertson is positioned to surpass Sir Kenny Dalglish’s historic national record of 102 caps should the defender feature in both upcoming international matches.
Squad Absences and Roster Adjustments
The squad announcement also detailed several enforced absences and tactical changes from the previous international window. Center-back Scott McKenna misses out after reportedly picking up a back strain while playing for Dinamo Zagreb, while midfielder Kenny McLean is also unavailable through injury. In addition, players such as Lennon Miller, Josh Doig, Colby Donovan, and James Wilson dropped out from the extended pool as the coaching staff trimmed the group from 28 to 26 players.
Pocognoli opted to maintain four goalkeepers in the updated selection, retaining Scott Bain, Angus Gunn, Liam Kelly, and Jon McCracken. Forward options include Sassuolo’s Kieron Bowie, Bournemouth winger Ben Gannon-Doak, and Sevilla’s Robbie Ure, providing the Belgian manager with fresh attacking alternatives for the decisive campaign conclusion.