How big a problem is central defence for Pocognoli?

Scotland face North Macedonia on Friday with central defence depleted by injuries to Welsh, McKenna and Binks, forcing Pocognoli to recall Porteous and Bates.

Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli faces a defensive crisis ahead of Friday's Nations League match against North Macedonia at Hampden Park. The starting back three from his opening victory in Skopje — Stephen Welsh, Scott McKenna and Luis Binks — are all unavailable through injury, forcing the Belgian to dig deep into his centre-back options.

Pocognoli has recalled forgotten men Ryan Porteous and David Bates alongside established but recently red-carded Jack Hendry and Stoke City's Luke Graham. Bates, who last played for Scotland seven years ago, is currently performing well in Turkey's Super Lig with Amedspor, ranked third in the competition. Porteous, now at Los Angeles FC, last earned a cap against Greece in March 2025.

The defensive shortage contrasts sharply with Pocognoli's midfield options. Andy Robertson, earning his 102nd cap to equal Kenny Dalglish's men's record, will captain the side, but his centre-back partners will have far fewer combined caps. North Macedonia arrive winless in 12 games and have failed to score in their last eight matches, offering Scotland a chance to secure a first home win under their new manager.