Aberdeen striker Kevin Nisbet is making a powerful case for a Scotland recall with his blistering start to the season. New Scotland head coach Sébastien Pocognoli will name his first squad next month, and Nisbet's nine goals in seven games demand attention according to a report in The Scotsman.
Pocognoli, the Belgian manager appointed to lead Scotland's World Cup 2026 campaign, faces his first competitive tests in the UEFA Nations League. Scotland's campaign kicks off away to Slovenia on September 26, with further fixtures against Switzerland and North Macedonia over a ten-day period. The squad announcement is expected two to three weeks before that opening match, giving players like Nisbet a final chance to impress.
Why is Kevin Nisbet in such strong form?
Kevin Nisbet has been revitalised since joining Aberdeen. The 29-year-old was named club captain for the 2026/27 season and has responded with a prolific run. Six of his nine goals came in the Premier Sports Cup group stages against lower league opposition. He also scored from the penalty spot in Aberdeen's opening Premiership win over Hearts and netted a brace against Dundee in the League Cup round of 16.
His career was previously derailed by injury, and he has not been called up by Scotland since October 2024. His last cap came back in 2023. Nisbet, who previously played for Hibernian and Raith Rovers, has crucial matches ahead to further his case. Aberdeen face Rangers at Pittodrie this weekend, then Celtic at Celtic Park next midweek, followed by a double header against Kilmarnock. All these games are likely to occur before Pocognoli finalises his Nations League squad.
What are Scotland's other striking options?
Pocognoli has several forwards to consider beyond Nisbet. Oli McBurnie, 30, is tipped for a return after scoring 19 goals for Hull City last season, helping them gain promotion to the Premier League. Hull opened their top-flight campaign with a 2-0 win over Manchester United. McBurnie's last of his 16 caps was in 2021.
Lawrence Shankland's start at Rangers has not been inspiring. George Hirst left newly-promoted Ipswich Town for Championship side Stoke City. Lyndon Dykes' involvement at Millwall so far amounts to just two late substitute appearances. Younger talents like James Wilson, Kieron Bowie, Robbie Ure at Sevilla, and Tommy Conway at Middlesbrough are mentioned as potential future call-ups.
How is Scotland's form ahead of the Nations League?
Scotland's recent results provide a mixed backdrop for Pocognoli's debut. The team currently sits third in their World Cup qualifying group with three points from three games, having won one and lost two. Their goal difference is negative three, with one goal scored and four conceded. Their last result was a 3-0 defeat to Brazil on June 24.
Looking at the last five matches, Scotland's form reads three wins and two losses, but they have lost their last two in a row. The immediate focus is on the fixtures page, starting with that trip to Slovenia. Fans can track the evolving squad selections as Pocognoli builds his team.
What does this mean for Pocognoli's first squad?
The new manager's initial squad selection will be closely scrutinised as he sets his tone. With Scotland needing more firepower, in-form strikers present a compelling argument. Nisbet's explosive club form, combined with McBurnie's consistent Championship scoring, offers experienced options. Pocognoli must balance current momentum with established international pedigree as he prepares for a critical Nations League group. The team's standings in World Cup qualifying add urgency to finding a winning formula quickly.
