Why Scotland 21s boss Tony Docherty has sent four players home ahead of Bulgaria game

Scotland Under-21s manager Tony Docherty has released four players from the squad ahead of their final European Championship qualifier against Bulgaria. With qualification no longer possible following their win over Azerbaijan, Jeremiah Mullen of Wigan Athletic, Dire Mebude of Caykur Rizespor, Emilio Lawrence of Manchester City, and Ben McPherson of Patrick Thistle have returned to their clubs.

Docherty explained the decision was made after discussions with the players, allowing him to prioritize younger talent eligible for upcoming campaigns. Scotland aims to secure a win or draw against Bulgaria to improve their seeding in pot three for future qualifying draws.