# How big a problem is central defence for Pocognoli?

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/how-big-a-problem-is-central-defence-for-pocognoli/
- Published: 2026-11-13T07:23:18+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-13T08:22:42+00:00
- Original publisher: BBC Sport (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/ckwy9jyd2wq5o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
- Topics: Sport, UK, World

## Key points

- Scotland are without their previous starting back three.
- Luke Graham could start after limited international experience.
- Robertson is set to equal Dalglish’s 102-cap record.

## Summary

Scotland’s central defence is under scrutiny ahead of their match against North Macedonia, with injuries ruling out all three centre-backs who started the previous meeting. The shortage leaves head coach Sebastien Pocognoli relying on a mix of recalled players and less experienced options as he seeks his first home win.

Andy Robertson is set to earn his 102nd cap, equalling Kenny Dalglish’s men’s record, while centre-back choices include Ryan Porteous, David Bates, Jack Hendry and Luke Graham. Bates has not played for Scotland in seven years, and Graham has only made a brief appearance; the 22-year-old is tipped for a start after impressing at Stoke. North Macedonia have gone 12 games without a win and failed to score in their past eight.

---
Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.