Scotland head coach Steve Clarke is set to announce his first squad of 2025 this Tuesday, and there are a number of players who may have earned a spot in the national team with their recent performances.
With several positions up for debate, these rising stars and form players could be in Clarke’s plans for the upcoming UEFA Nations League play-off fixtures against Greece.
Kevin Nisbet: A striker hitting form at the right time
Aberdeen striker Kevin Nisbet has hit form at the perfect time, netting five goals in his last six appearances.
After battling injuries over the past couple of seasons, Nisbet is beginning to look like the clinical forward who earned a £2million move from Hibernian to Millwall in the summer of 2023.
On loan at Pittodrie until the end of the season, there are growing suggestions that the Dons may push to sign him permanently this summer.
And with Scotland lacking depth in the striker department, a place in Clarke’s next national team squad wouldn’t be a surprise.
His recent consistency in front of goal, sharp finishing, and growing confidence at club level make him a strong contender for an international recall - especially with Lyndon Dykes currently sidelined.
Nisbet has 11 Scotland caps and was most recently among the group for the October Nations League games against Croatia and Portugal.
Alternatively, there has been speculation surrounding a potential call-up for Ipswich Town forward George Hirst.
The 26-year-old, the son of former Sheffield Wednesday striker David Hirst, qualifies for Scotland through his grandparent.
Hirst caught the eye of Clarke when he scored in an FA Cup tie against Nottingham Forest on March 3.
While his goal tally this season stands at three in 19 appearances, he has also contributed two assists.
Though his numbers don’t jump off the page, his work rate and ability to contribute in different areas of attack could also see him enter Clarke’s thoughts for the upcoming squad.
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Chris Brady: The US-based goalkeeper with Scotland ambitions
While not widely known to the Tartan Army, Chicago Fire goalkeeper Chris Brady has expressed his desire to represent Scotland on the international stage.
Brady, 21, qualifies through his Scottish heritage, and with recent developments, he could be in line for a national team call-up in the near future.
The goalkeeper position has been an area of concern for Clarke in recent months, with 42-year-old Craig Gordon recalled for the Nations League fixtures.
Angus Gunn, who previously held the role, hasn’t been overly convincing, and both Zander Clark and Liam Kelly have struggled to secure regular starting positions at their respective clubs.
Brady’s recent performances have caught the eye, including a remarkable penalty save in Chicago’s 3-1 win over FC Dallas last Sunday.
Brady has been a standout performer in the MLS over the past two seasons, and his consistent form could make him an exciting and realistic option for Clarke, especially with his potential to offer long-term stability in the goalkeeping role.
Luke McCowan: The Celtic midfielder hoping to make his mark
Luke McCowan’s move from Dundee to Celtic last summer was seen as a step up in his career, and he’s hoping it will pay off with a first Scotland call-up.
The 27-year-old midfielder has shown glimpses of his potential when given the opportunity, despite having to be patient for regular minutes under Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers.
McCowan’s performances when he’s been on the pitch have been impressive, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the demands of a bigger club and step up when required.
Motherwell’s teenage sensation Lennon Miller is another central midfield option to consider. However, Clarke has previously suggested that the 18-year-old may be better suited remaining in the youth teams for now.
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Max Johnston: Is the right-back spot up for grabs?
Max Johnston is still waiting for his first senior Scotland cap, despite being called up late to a previous squad.
However, with Aaron Hickey sidelined due to a hamstring injury, plus Nathan Patterson, Anthony Ralston and Calvin Ramsay struggling for game time, the right-back position could be there for the taking.
Most recently, he provided an assist as his club staged a late comeback to defeat Grazer AK, keeping them top of the Austrian Bundesliga.
Johnston’s consistent performances in a competitive European league make him a serious contender for a call-up, especially with Scotland’s current lack of in-form options at right-back.
Who replaces Ben Doak?
It’s a question on the lips of every Scotland supporter. The Liverpool kid has been ruled out of the March internationals after suffering an injury setback on-loan at Middlesbrough.
With Scotland not boasting natural pace and threat from the wide areas in abundance, Doak’s absence is likely to be felt.
