Sebastien Pocognoli has hailed Scott McTominay as one of the “fantastic leaders” he believes can play a crucial role in driving Scotland forward.
The Napoli midfielder has returned to the national-team fold ahead of the Nations League clashes with North Macedonia and Switzerland after missing Pocognoli’s opening four matches in charge.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s meeting with North Macedonia at Hampden, Pocognoli revealed McTominay is part of a five-man captaincy group he will lean on to maintain standards within the squad.
“I don't have to paint a picture of how important a player he is for us,” Pocognoli said. “He is exciting. He had a smile on his face from the minute he arrived at the camp.
“Without leaders, you can't win anything. You need guys who are helping the staff bring the standard. We are really lucky that we have a lot of captains in this team.
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“It is one of the reasons why I feel comfortable to come to Scotland as the gaffer because I know we have fantastic leaders who are committed to doing their best for their country.”
Pocognoli also paid tribute to captain Andy Robertson as the defender prepares to equal Kenny Dalglish’s long-standing record of 102 Scotland caps. He said: “We are really lucky in modern football to have a leader like him.”
Scotland head into their final two Nations League matches knowing there is little margin for error after a mixed opening four fixtures under Pocognoli.
The Belgian insists the camp will also be important for the longer-term development of his squad. He added: “This camp is crucial for me in demanding the players try to impress me and do everything to improve.”
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