Uncapped Montgomery earns first Scotland call-up as Tierney and McLean withdraw
Blackburn Rovers midfielder Kristi Montgomery has received his first senior Scotland call-up after Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean withdrew from the Nations League squad. The 22-year-old has started every Championship match this season. He is one of eight uncapped players selected by new coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
Montgomery, 22, has been with Blackburn since childhood and qualifies for Scotland through his mother. He previously represented the nation at under-18, under-20, and under-21 levels before earning this senior promotion. His club form has been a bright spot for Blackburn, who sit 16th in the Championship after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.
Manager Tony Mowbray has publicly praised Montgomery's work rate and duel-winning ability in midfield. He has featured in all ten of Blackburn's matches this season. His call-up comes alongside seven other uncapped players in a heavily refreshed squad, with veterans Tierney and McLean contributing 119 caps between them before their withdrawals.
This selection could signal a generational shift for Scotland's national team, offering younger players a pathway during a transitional period. It may also raise Montgomery's profile, potentially increasing his market value and Blackburn's leverage in future transfer negotiations. For fans, the squad's fresh look could generate renewed optimism, though it may also carry short-term risk if inexperience shows in competitive Nations League fixtures.