Scotland: How is Sebastien Pocognoli's squad shaping up for his debut as head coach?
Scotland Squad Analysis
By Clive Lindsay, BBC Sport Scotland
Sometimes luck can be the difference between success and failure as a manager, and Sebastien Pocognoli appears to have had some fortune with his first Scotland squad—at least before any games are played.
Key players such as Scott McTominay (out due to minor heart surgery), Lawrence Shankland (injury), and Che Adams (injury) were absent from the initial selection, but fortunately for Pocognoli, none of the 28-strong squad have pulled out through injury following their latest club games.
Goalkeeping
The goalkeeping position was a concern under former coach Steve Clarke due to Craig Gordon's retirement and limited game time for back-up options. However, Angus Gunn is now a regular at San Jose Earthquakes after his summer move from Nottingham Forest, while Scott Bain impresses for Falkirk and Jon McCracken shines with Bradford City in League One.
Forwards
Without Shankland and Adams, Pocognoli brought in fresh blood among the forwards. Oli McBurnie continues to start for Hull City in their return to the Premier League, while Robbie Ure started against Barcelona for Sevilla. James Wilson has also settled well since returning to Heart of Midlothian from Tottenham Hotspur.
Youngsters like Kieron Bowie, Findlay Curtis, and Ben Gannon-Doak had to settle for substitute roles over the weekend, but their club-mates can take heart from Ryan Christie's recent start for Liverpool, despite being replaced after 75 minutes.
All seven of Pocognoli's central midfield options started at the weekend, including Lennon Miller in Udinese's defeat by Cagliari, and Billy Gilmour, who scored against Fiorentina.