Turkey-based Bates replaces Binks in Scotland squad

Centre-back David Bates is likely to make his first Scotland appearance in seven years after being added to the national team's squad for upcoming matches against North Macedonia and Switzerland. Bates, currently playing for Amedspor in Turkey, won his last cap for Scotland in 2019 and replaces defender Luis Binks, who has withdrawn from the squad.

Bates, 30, has had club experience in Belgium, England, Germany, and Turkey, with most of his appearances made at Mechelen. Other central defenders in the squad include Luke Graham, Jack Hendry, and Ryan Porteous, with left-back Kieran Tierney also capable of playing in the preferred back three. Brondby's Binks previously earned his first three caps during Scotland's opening four matches in the Nations League, contributing to the team's four points.

North Macedonia, who will face Scotland at Hampden Park on Friday, have no points in the competition, while Slovenia and Switzerland sit three and one points ahead of Scotland, respectively.