New Scotland manager Sébastien Pocognoli is looking to a "smiling" Billy Gilmour to be central to the national team's improvement following their World Cup exit. Gilmour, a Napoli midfielder, missed the World Cup through injury but impressed in the second half of Pocognoli's debut as manager, which saw Scotland draw goalless away against Slovenia in the Nations League on Saturday.
Pocognoli expressed his desire for Gilmour to enjoy his football, stating, "I just want Billy to enjoy his football with a smile. If he can do that, the rest will come." He noted Gilmour's performance against Slovenia reminded him of his time at Brighton, adding that the midfielder "has to take the risks to play like that to see his qualities."
The manager also issued a warning to players not featuring regularly for their clubs, indicating that securing a place in future Scotland squads will become increasingly difficult. While the current situation is manageable, Pocognoli anticipates changes by the time Euro 2028 qualifying begins next year, particularly concerning players' physical condition if they lack consistent game time.
Scotland trained at Hampden Park on Monday, with Pocognoli aiming to familiarise new squad members with the venue ahead of their match against Switzerland on Tuesday evening.