Scotland Under-21 head coach Tony Docherty has lauded the positive mentality of Colby Donovan, Lennon Miller, and James Wilson after the trio made the transition down from the senior national setup. Celtic right-back Donovan, Udinese midfielder Miller, and Heart of Midlothian forward Wilson—all members of Sebastian Pocogonoli's initial full Scotland squad—have been named in Docherty's newly assembled group for friendlies against Ukraine and the United States in Spain this month.
Docherty revealed that integrating players with senior international experience provides crucial momentum for the younger squad, explaining that they become a leadership core responsible for driving standards and shaping team identity. Pointing to past examples, the head coach highlighted how Findlay Curtis previously worked his way back to the senior team through his Under-21 displays. Docherty noted that regular discussions were held with both Donovan and Miller to outline their pathways, ensuring they receive valuable match minutes in a youth environment designed to mirror the structure and fundamentals of the senior team.
The head coach had a particularly detailed talk with 20-year-old Miller, who joined Udinese from Motherwell last summer seeking to secure a senior place but faces intense depth in his position. Docherty referenced Barney Stewart as a benchmark, citing how Stewart scored three goals during an Under-21 camp before returning to West Bromwich Albion's first team to score and win matches. Docherty also commended Donovan's attitude, emphasizing that the defender actively wanted to play and make an impression rather than simply being instructed to join the youth ranks.
The current selection also features Manchester United midfielder Tyler Fletcher, who was involved in the World Cup before entering Docherty's group in September, as well as St Mirren forward Eseosa Sule. With Docherty launching preparations for a fresh European qualifying campaign after 16 of the 27 players from his initial squad exceeded the age threshold, the upcoming tests in Spain will serve as a crucial launchpad for the reconstructed group.