Scotland’s head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has selected 22-year-old midfielder Kristi Montgomery for her first senior call-up following withdrawals from established players Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean. Montgomery, currently with Blackburn Rovers, has featured prominently in the Championship this season.
Montgomery becomes the eighth uncapped player in the 27-member squad assembled for upcoming Nations League matches against Slovenia twice, Switzerland, and North Macedonia. The midfielder has represented Scotland at youth levels, including Under-18s, Under-20s, and Under-21s, and qualifies for the national team through her mother. Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray has praised her performances, noting her effectiveness in midfield possession and dueling.
The squad reflects a significant generational shift, with experienced international Tierney from Celtic and McLean from Norwich having accumulated 119 caps combined. Pocognoli also made several other adjustments, recalling players including Oli McBurnie, Scott Bain, Kieron Bowie, Josh Doig, Lennon Miller, and James Wilson. Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour returns following a prior injury absence.
Several established names did not receive selection, including Dominic Hyam, Lyndon Dykes, George Hirst, Grant Hanley, Anthony Ralston, and Ross Stewart. Manchester United prospect Tyler Fletcher has been retained in the Under-21 setup, taking the role previously held by Gilmour. Montgomery’s call-up adds another dimension to what observers have described as an increasingly youthful national team squad.
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