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You are the Scotland boss – what would you do?

Put yourself in the shoes of the new Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli as he picks his first home XI to face North Macedonia.

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 6:17 AM
You are the Scotland boss – what would you do?
Key Things to Know
  • Clive Lindsay examines the lineup dilemmas facing Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli ahead of their Nations League match against North Macedonia.
  • Defender Jack Hendry is suspended following an early red card in Scotland's 3-0 home defeat to Switzerland.
  • Pundits are urging Pocognoli to start winger Ben Gannon-Doak to inject pace into Scotland's attack.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli is seeking his first victory as his team travels to face North Macedonia in Nations League Group B1. After an opening draw against Slovenia and a 3-0 home defeat to Switzerland, Pocognoli must make tactical adjustments in Skopje. An enforced lineup change is required following centre-half Jack Hendry's early red card against the Swiss, leaving questions about how Scotland will structure its defence and attack.

Clive Lindsay highlights potential alterations, including whether Ben Gannon-Doak should earn a start and if Aaron Hickey might move into central defence. In midfield, John McGinn's starting role faces scrutiny due to recent dip in influence, while goalkeeper Angus Gunn is under pressure following criticism over Switzerland's goals. Pocognoli must also decide whether in-form striker Oli McBurnie will retain his starting spot in attack.

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