Six new call-ups, a refreshed defence, a more-of-the-same midfield and an exciting, new-look attack. The Sebastien Pocognoli Scotland era is already creating serious intrigue - and the Belgian's squad are yet to assemble for a training-ground rondo, never mind play a game. The 39-year-old's first taste of competitive action starts with a Nations League opener in Slovenia on 26 September - live on the BBC - beginning an extended four-game international period.
In the meantime, let's dissect the talking points from a bold 28-man selection. McBurnie & seven uncapped players in Scotland squad Scotland fans allowed to buy alcohol at upcoming games Is Sevilla's 'all-round striker' Ure ready to lead Scotland's attack? There have been no new call-ups in the goalkeeping department.
Angus Gunn, now playing with San Jose Earthquakes in the MLS, has 25 caps and will be the favourite to continue between the sticks. Pocognoli's first selection has shown that a surprise is not beyond him, though. The Belgian stressed the importance of his style in relation to his squad picks, and Falkirk's Scott Bain is a goalkeeper who can deal with the ball at his feet.
Jon McCracken is also playing regularly for Bradford City in England's League One, but Liam Kelly very much remains second choice at Rangers. As for the backline, the new Scotland boss has predominantly played with a back three throughout his coaching career at both Union Saint-Gilloise and Monaco. He insists on his teams being aggressive in and out of possession, so will want defenders capable of picking brave passes but also with the pace to cover big distances when playing a high line.
Scott McKenna, Jack Hendry and Kieran Tierney all have experience of playing in a back three under Steve Clarke, albeit the approach will differ under Pocognoli. Captain Andy Robertson also clocked up a lot of minutes at left wing-back. Aaron Hickey, Nathan Patterson and young Colby Donovan, who has impressed Pocognoli "but needs to improve on things like every young lad", are options for the opposite flank.
Uncapped trio Luis Binks, Stephen Welsh and Luke Graham add more depth at centre-back. Brondby captain Binks, who qualifies for Scotland through a grandparent, has had an interesting career. "The feeling and the timing about him was right," Pocognoli said of the former Bologna and Como man.
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