Tony Docherty hails Scotland dropouts on Under 21s return as defeat admitted for now in Australia tug of war

Docherty praises Miller and Donovan for accepting Under 21s call-ups to gain minutes; Scotland loses Daniel Bennie to Australia for Olympics.

Scotland Under 21s manager Tony Docherty has named his squad for friendlies against Ukraine and the USA in Spain this month, welcoming back Serie A's Lennon Miller and Celtic full back Colby Donovan after they missed the senior squad call-up.

Docherty explained his reasoning to both players, emphasizing the importance of game time and a clear pathway back to the A squad. "If they are not going to be getting minutes in this camp with the A squad, then it is important they come into my squad and get game time," he said. He praised their professionalism, noting they form a leadership group within the younger squad alongside Manchester United's Tyler Fletcher and Hearts' James Wilson, both of whom have senior caps.

Meanwhile, Scotland has lost the battle for Dundee United winger Daniel Bennie, who is eligible for both Scotland and Australia. The on-loan QPR player has opted to remain with the Socceroos for an upcoming Under 23s Olympics event after representing them at youth level, though Docherty indicated Scotland will continue to monitor his situation.