'A top player who can play in many positions' — Pocognoli on McTominay's Scotland fit

New Scotland boss identifies Napoli star as key piece

New Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli has moved to ease any lingering questions over how Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay fits into his plans, describing the Premier League and Serie A title winner as "a top player who can play in many positions".

Asked directly where the former Manchester United man fits within his system, Pocognoli's answer, given to The Guardian, was emphatic in its endorsement — a notable vote of confidence given McTominay is currently working his way back from a minor heart procedure.

McTominay has been a fixture for Scotland since committing his international future to the country of his mother's birth, and his versatility across midfield roles made him a favourite of previous regimes. Pocognoli's public backing suggests he remains central to the new coach's thinking despite the fitness setback, with the Napoli star expected to take time to regain full sharpness before the next international window.

The scale of the Scotland task is clear, and Pocognoli appears intent on building around a player he clearly rates highly as the national team begins its post-qualifying reset.