Scotland Announces Squad for Nations League: Gauld, Doak, Johnston & McCrorie Included

Scotland National Football Team's Latest Squad: Uncapped Players Make the Cut

Steve Clarke, the head coach of the Scotland national football team, has announced his squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Poland and Portugal. This squad includes four uncapped players, signaling a potential new chapter for the team.

New Faces in the Squad

The inclusions of Ryan Gauld from Vancouver Whitecaps, Ben Doak of Liverpool, Max Johnston from SK Sturm Graz, and Robby McCrorie of Kilmarnock mark an opportunity for these players to showcase their talents on the international stage.

Ryan Gauld: A Proven Talent in MLS

Ryan Gauld has had an impressive stint in Major League Soccer (MLS), scoring 36 goals and providing 39 assists in 122 matches. His accolades include being part of the MLS All-Star team in 2024 and winning the Canadian Championship twice. After being called up previously in 2014, he finally gets another chance under Clarke's management.

Ben Doak: A Return from Injury

Ben Doak was initially part of Scotland’s Euro 2024 squad but had to withdraw due to an injury. Although he hasn’t featured in Liverpool’s opening matches this season, he has shown promise at the club level.

Max Johnston: Rising Star from SK Sturm Graz

Max Johnston impressed in the U21 side and was instrumental in guiding SK Sturm Graz to a League and Cup double last season. His skills have given Clarke another reliable option in defense.

Robby McCrorie: New Beginnings

Replacing Liam Kelly, McCrorie has made a significant move to Kilmarnock, where he aims to shine as a back-up goalkeeper alongside Angus Gunn and Zander Clark.

Returning Players and Notable Absences

Returning to the squad is Lyndon Dykes, who missed the Euro 2024 tournament due to injury, and John Souttar, who was omitted from Clarke’s final selection earlier.

However, several players who featured in previous squads, including Celtic's captain Callum McGregor, announced his retirement from international football, leading to his absence in this selection.

What to Expect in Upcoming Matches

Scotland’s fixtures in the Nations League involve tough competitors: Poland on September 5 and Portugal on September 8, followed by matches against Croatia in October and November. This is an excellent opportunity for Clarke to evaluate his new players' capabilities against quality teams.

Scotland's Complete Squad for Nations League

• Goalkeepers: Zander Clark (Heart of Midlothian), Angus Gunn (Norwich City), Robby McCrorie (Kilmarnock)
• Defenders: Grant Hanley (Norwich City), Max Johnston (SK Sturm Graz), Scott McKenna (UD Las Palmas), Ryan Porteous (Watford), Anthony Ralston (Celtic), Andrew Robertson (Liverpool), John Souttar (Rangers), Greg Taylor (Celtic)
• Midfielders: Ryan Christie (AFC Bournemouth), Ben Doak (Liverpool), James Forrest (Celtic), Ryan Gauld (Vancouver Whitecaps), Billy Gilmour (Brighton & Hove Albion FC), John McGinn (Aston Villa), Kenny McLean (Norwich City), Scott McTominay (Manchester United), Lewis Morgan (New York Red Bulls)
• Forwards: Che Adams (Torino), Tommy Conway (Middlesbrough), Lyndon Dykes (Queens Park Rangers), Lawrence Shankland (Heart of Midlothian)

Upcoming Fixtures

• Scotland vs. Poland (Home) - September 5
• Scotland vs. Portugal (Away) - September 8
• Scotland vs. Croatia (Away) - October 12
• Scotland vs. Portugal (Home) - October 15
• Scotland vs. Croatia (Home) - November 15
• Scotland vs. Poland (Away) - November 18

With a mix of experience and fresh talent, Scotland aims to advance in the upcoming matches, making these fixtures crucial for both team development and performance.