Scotland’s 2026 World Cup squad announced as Steve Clarke makes controversial selections

With the 2026 World Cup quickly approaching, Scotland manager Steve Clarke has named his squad that will be on the plane to North America.

There was a lot of debate over who would secure their spot, especially with Tommy Conway picking up an injury recently that will see him sidelined for some time. No one knew who would replace him, but now, we have our answer.

On Tuesday, Clarke named his squad alongside Scottish actor Ewan McGregor.

In the goalkeeping position, Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly have been named by Clarke.

At the back, Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Aaron Hickey, Dom Hyam, Scott McKenna, Nathan Patterson, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar, and Kieran Tierney are the selected players.

In midfield, Ryan Christie, Findlay Curtis, Lewis Ferguson, Ben Gannon-Doak, Billy Gilmour, John McGinn, Kenny McLean and Scott McTominay will represent their country.

Leading the line, Clarke will have Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes, George Hirst, Lawrence Shankland and Ross Stewart to choose from.

There are mixed opinions on the squad, and it’s understandable. Seeing Oli McBurnie snubbed yet again has been a point of contention, especially as he was being floated as the obvious replacement for the injured Conway.

Scott Bain should have been the obvious selection between the sticks, with him being first-choice goalkeeper at Falkirk and helping them to a fantastic top-six finish in the Scottish Premiership this season. Over the other options, he seemed like a no-brainer, but the Scots will now have to do without him. Clarke likely snubbed him because of an injury he is currently recovering from that he picked up in recent weeks.

On the other hand, Curtis getting a call-up is absolutely fantastic. He has an amazing future ahead of him and getting experience at the World Cup is going to be brilliant for him.