New Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli has unveiled his backroom staff, a four-person team that includes two fresh faces as he prepares to name his first squad. The Belgian tactician will lead the Scottish national team for the first time during an upcoming quadruple-header in the Nations League. The campaign kicks off with an away match against Slovenia on September 26, followed by a home fixture against Switzerland at Hampden Park three days later. The international window continues with a trip to North Macedonia on October 3, concluding with Slovenia visiting Glasgow on October 6.
Key Appointments in Pocognoli’s Staff
Joining Pocognoli in the dugout is Alan Irvine, who will continue in his role as assistant coach. Irvine, 66, previously served under Steve Clarke during the latter part of his tenure and will balance his national team duties with his current position as assistant to David Moyes at Everton. Irvine has a history with Pocognoli, having signed him as a player for West Bromwich Albion in 2014.
Luke Benstead, 36, has been appointed as an assistant coach with specific responsibility for set pieces. Benstead brings significant international experience, having spent seven years as an assistant coach for the Belgian national team. He also previously worked under Jose Mourinho at Manchester United. Benstead is transitioning from his role as assistant and set-piece coach at Istanbul Basaksehir in the Turkish Super Lig to join the Scottish FA on a full-time basis.
Cameron Campbell has been brought into the Scotland setup, with Pocognoli describing him as one of “Europe’s outstanding young coaches.” Campbell, who has a background as a youth coach at Rangers, is currently with Tottenham Hotspur. His previous experience includes a stint as Transition Coach and Head of Talent at RB Leipzig.
Retained from the previous coaching team is Chris Woods, 66, who will continue as goalkeeping coach. Woods was part of the coaching staff that accompanied the team to the recent World Cup and has a distinguished career, including international appearances as a goalkeeper for England.
Pocognoli Expresses Delight with New Team
Sebastien Pocognoli shared his satisfaction with the assembled staff, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right individuals for the start of his tenure. “It was important for me to assemble the right backroom staff at the start of this new challenge,” Pocognoli stated. “I took my time and did my research, and I’m delighted with the group we have.”
Reflecting on Alan Irvine’s continued involvement, Pocognoli highlighted their past connection and Irvine’s valuable contributions. “Alan Irvine signed me for West Bromwich Albion as a player back in 2014. Back then, I couldn’t have predicted that our paths would lead to the Scotland National Team,” he remarked. “I am really pleased that Alan didn’t hesitate in agreeing to stay on. His passion for the role is obvious, as is his quality on the training pitch. He has the respect of everyone who has worked with him.” Pocognoli added that Irvine’s extensive coaching career, spanning over 30 years, and his recent experiences at the FIFA World Cup and with Everton, would bring invaluable expertise to the squad.
Pocognoli was particularly impressed by Cameron Campbell, citing strong recommendations from contacts in the English Premier League and Germany. “I was very impressed by Cameron Campbell when I met him, and the recommendations I have received on him from trusted contacts in the English Premier League and in Germany, has been outstanding,” Pocognoli said. He noted that while Campbell’s Scottish heritage is a bonus, his appointment is primarily based on his recognized ability as a top young coach in Europe.
Regarding Luke Benstead, Pocognoli acknowledged knowing him from his time with the Belgian national team. “Luke was known to me from his time in Belgium, where he has worked with some big talents in his seven years with the national team,” Pocognoli explained. “He has such a rounded skillset, having worked as a performance analyst then as an assistant coach at the highest level, with that added responsibility for set-pieces, which he will continue with Scotland. His enthusiasm to join this exciting project really stood out.”
Pocognoli also expressed his confidence in Chris Woods, praising his playing career and goalkeeping coaching expertise. “The same applies to Chris Woods. Not only on the back of a standout playing career, where he played international football, but for his expertise as a goalkeeping coach working with some excellent goalkeepers. Like Alan, he is clearly proud to represent Scotland and knows our group well.”
Pocognoli concluded by stating that clear responsibilities have been assigned to each staff member and expressed his eagerness to begin working with the team.
Scottish FA Welcomes New Coaching Team
Craig Mulholland, the Scottish FA’s Chief Football Officer, commented on the meticulous process Pocognoli undertook in assembling his staff. “Although we have only worked together for a short time, it came as no surprise to me, and the association, that Sebastien was as meticulous in assembling his backroom staff as he is every other aspect of his job,” Mulholland said. “He had a clear vision for the profiles he wanted, but took his time in making the right selections.”
Mulholland also expressed gratitude for the support of the Scottish FA board in approving the recruitment of Pocognoli’s desired team. He described the new group of staff as an “exciting group” that combines potential with experience, innovation, and hunger. Mulholland also took the opportunity to thank Andrew Hughes for his contributions to the national team and wished him well in his new role.
The Scottish FA anticipates Sebastien Pocognoli’s first squad announcement and the commencement of the UEFA Nations League campaign, viewing it as an exciting new chapter for the national team.
