Defender David Bates has been called up to the Scotland squad for their upcoming international fixtures against North Macedonia and Switzerland, replacing Luis Binks, who has withdrawn from the team.
According to BBC Sport, the 30-year-old centre-back could earn his first international appearance in seven years after last featuring for Scotland in 2019, when he earned four caps under former manager Alex McLeish while playing for German club Hamburg.
Defensive Options and Club Form
Bates currently plays in Turkey for Amedspor, where he has started all 11 matches this season to help the club reach third place in the Turkish Super Lig. His career includes previous spells in his homeland, Belgium, England, and Germany, with the majority of his appearances coming during his time at Mechelen.
His addition provides defensive reinforcement to head coach Sebastien Pocognoli’s squad alongside central defenders Luke Graham, Jack Hendry, and Ryan Porteous. Left-back Kieran Tierney is also available as an option in Pocognoli’s preferred three-man central defense.
Nations League Context
Binks, who plays for Brondby, earned his first three caps during Scotland’s opening four Nations League matches before withdrawing from the current selection. Scotland currently hold four points in their group.
Scotland host North Macedonia at Hampden on Friday, with the visitors yet to record a point in the section. Pocognoli’s side then travel to face group leaders Switzerland on Monday, who remain on maximum points, while Slovenia sit three points ahead of Scotland in the standings.
