Sebastien Pocognoli is preparing to name his first Scotland squad since taking over as head coach, with the announcement due on Tuesday ahead of Nations League B matches against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia. The selection marks the start of a new era following Steve Clarke's seven-year tenure, which brought Scotland their first men's World Cup appearance in 28 years but was also criticised by some supporters for its reliance on a settled group of players.
With Scotland having returned early from their World Cup campaign in the United States, there is growing anticipation that Pocognoli could freshen up the squad rather than simply maintain continuity.
Goalkeeping remains an area of uncertainty. Angus Gunn, who started at the World Cup, has struggled defensively at San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer, conceding 21 goals in nine appearances, despite a strong showing in a recent win. Craig Gordon has retired from the international scene, and Liam Kelly has been frozen out at Rangers since Derek McInnes's arrival, potentially opening up spots. Falkirk's Scott Bain, who earned his fourth cap in April, has been backed by his club manager John McGlynn to start for Scotland this month. Meanwhile, Partick Thistle loanee Liam McFarlane, who served as a training goalkeeper at the World Cup, has impressed with just one goal conceded in five Championship games and could be in line for a call-up as third choice.
In defence, changes could also be afoot. Grant Hanley picked up an injury for Hibernian, while John Souttar has been absent from Rangers' matchday squads amid reported interest from abroad. Swansea's Stephen Welsh, who impressed on loan at Motherwell last season, has continued to perform well in the Championship, while Stoke City's Luke Graham and Brondby captain Luis Binks are also considered candidates to challenge Scott McKenna. At full-back, Celtic's Colby Donovan has emerged as a rising talent, though he faces competition from Aaron Hickey, Nathan Patterson, Max Johnston and Josh Doig.
In midfield, Billy Gilmour is expected to return having recovered from the knee injury that ruled him out of the World Cup. The Napoli midfielder has featured in the Champions League and Serie A in recent weeks. Motherwell product Lennon Miller, who has found first-team opportunities limited at Udinese, could benefit from Scott McTominay's recovery from heart surgery, while Hibernian's Josh Mulligan has also been mentioned as a contender after strong recent performances.
Up front, Torino's Che Adams looks set to retain his place after scoring twice in three Serie A appearances. Lawrence Shankland is unavailable through injury, and questions remain over the future involvement of the ageing Lyndon Dykes. Oli McBurnie, who has not featured for Scotland since 2021, could be given a fresh chance under Pocognoli despite previous tensions with Clarke's coaching staff. The Hull City striker has been in strong form for his Premier League club, contributing to notable results against Manchester United and Chelsea. Sevilla's Robbie Ure, who joined the Spanish club after a prolific spell in Sweden, and Sassuolo's Kieron Bowie, who recently scored against Juventus, are also among the options being considered.
Hearts' front three of James Wilson, Calvin Miller and Josh McPake have also drawn attention following strong performances in the Scottish Premiership, including in a recent derby against Hibernian.
With so many players pushing for inclusion, Pocognoli faces a significant decision as he shapes the direction of the national team heading into this international window.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.