Ross Stewart called into Scotland World Cup 2026 squad after scoring surge for Southampton
Ross Stewart called into Scotland World Cup squad after 10 goals in 21 games, strengthening Steve Clarke’s attacking options ahead of the Group C campaign.
Stewart returns to Scotland’s World Cup plans
Ross Stewart has been named in Scotland’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup after an extended absence from international duty. Stewart’s inclusion follows a rich scoring run for Southampton, where he has netted 10 goals in his last 21 outings and played a central role in the club’s run to the Championship play-off final.
The 29-year-old striker had made only two appearances for Scotland in 2022 before injury interrupted his progress. Steve Clarke’s decision restores an in-form forward to a roster that must balance experience and recent form ahead of a tough group-stage draw.
Manager Steve Clarke finalises attacking options
Clarke opted for a compact but experienced forward line, selecting Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes, Lawrence Shankland and George Hirst alongside Stewart. The selection reflects competition up front and Clarke’s preference for players who can offer different physical and technical profiles against varied opponents.
Stewart’s selection appears to have settled a series of tactical choices the manager faced this season. Clarke’s mix of pace, hold-up play and finishing ability in the squad gives Scotland multiple ways to attack in matches against Brazil, Morocco and Haiti.
Club form underpins Stewart’s call-up
Stewart’s recent form for Southampton was the decisive factor in his recall to the national side. The striker, who previously played for Ross County and Sunderland, has been a consistent source of goals during Southampton’s push for promotion, bringing a renewed goalscoring threat to the international setup.
His combination of movement in the box, clinical finishing and growing confidence has impressed club and country observers alike. That momentum was critical in convincing selectors that he can make an immediate contribution in North America.
Injury comebacks and squad additions
The squad also includes players returning from serious injuries, reflecting Clarke’s faith in their recovery and current match fitness. Ben Janon-Duak was added after making three substitute appearances for Bournemouth since recovering from a serious hamstring injury sustained in November’s qualifier against Denmark.
Clarke also retained winger Findlay Cortis after the player’s strong spell on loan at Kilmarnock from Rangers. Cortis made his international debut in March against Japan and kept his place through consistent club performances.
Defensive and goalkeeping selections draw attention
In goal, Clarke selected Angus Gunn, Craig Gordon and William Kelly, a group that has seen limited collective club minutes this season. The trio have combined for only seven appearances for their clubs across the campaign, a fact that has prompted discussion about match sharpness ahead of the tournament.
The defensive contingent is largely familiar, with full-backs Aaron Hickey, Anthony Ralston and Nathan Patterson providing options at right-back. Andy Robertson and Kieran Tierney anchor the wider defensive unit, supported centrally by Grant Hanley, Dom Hyam, John Souttar, Scott McKenna and Jack Hendry, all of whom bring different strengths to Clarke’s backline plans.
Midfield balance and surprise omissions
Scotland’s midfield includes established figures John McGinn, Kenny McLean, Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Lewis Ferguson and Ryan Christie. Clarke’s selection aims to blend defensive cover, transitional control and creative spark, while the wings are expected to be supplied by Cortis and Ben Janon-Duak among others.
One high-profile omission was midfielder Lennon Miller, who expressed clear disappointment at missing out on the squad. The exclusion underlines the difficult calls Clarke had to make, particularly with several midfielders vying for a limited number of places and the need to select players in peak form.
Scotland must also manage expectations in attack after strong campaigns from rivals for selection such as Oli McBurnie, Oliver Burke and Kieron Bowie. Clarke chose to prioritise form and fit, with Stewart ultimately edging into the squad thanks to his recent goalscoring consistency.
Scotland face a challenging Group C in the World Cup, drawn with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti, and Clarke’s 26-man selection reflects an attempt to marry current form with established international experience.
Scotland will head into the tournament hoping that Stewart’s club form translates to the international stage and that the balance across defence, midfield and attack gives them flexibility against varied opponents.