Jordan Holsgrove is still chasing his first Scotland cap as the national team continues to assess its options. The 27-year-old midfielder, based in Portugal with Estoril, has had recent contact with the Scotland set-up and remains determined to force his way into contention. His push for recognition comes as Scotland looks to bounce back from a 1-2 defeat at home to Slovenia on 6 October, a result that leaves the side with one win, one draw and two losses from its last four matches.
Steve Clarke’s squad is next in action for a key home qualifier against FYR Macedonia on 13 November. The search for fresh impetus is ongoing, and players performing consistently abroad, like Holsgrove, are part of that wider conversation. The defeat to Slovenia, where Ryan Christie scored an early opener before two second-half goals turned the game, highlighted areas where new faces could make a difference.
Domestic cup focus shifts to Hampden
Attention this weekend turns to Hampden Park for the Premier Sports Cup semi-finals. Hibernian face Hearts in one tie, with Hibs boss Marink Reedijk set for a reunion with former Beveren goalkeeper Beau Reus. In the other semi-final, Aberdeen meet Rangers. Aberdeen legend Joe Harper has urged his former side to dig deep for the occasion. "Aberdeen may be low on confidence but must 'fight with all they've got' in Saturday's Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers," Harper said. He also backed experienced defender Nicky Devlin, 33, to handle the big stage if called upon.
Club form provides wider context
Form in the domestic leagues continues to shape the landscape. Falkirk have won three consecutive matches under John McGlynn, with Ben Krauhaus scoring in a recent away victory at Aberdeen. At St Johnstone, Josh Campbell is regaining fitness after illness and marked his return with a goal off the bench in a draw with Motherwell. Meanwhile, it has been revealed that Blackburn Rovers were close to signing Elijah Just before his summer move from Motherwell to Swansea City. These stories of recovery, momentum, and near-misses all feed into the competitive environment from which Scotland selects its players.
With the next international date now less than two weeks away, the management team will be finalising its plans. Scotland’s last meeting with FYR Macedonia was a 2-0 away victory in early October, with goals from Kieron Bowie and John McGinn.
