Hickey back for Scotland’s World Cup qualifiers

Aaron Hickey returns to the Scotland squad for the first time in almost two years as World Cup qualifying begins with an away double-header against Denmark and Belarus next month.

The Brentford full-back, 23, has made two appearances as substitute in the Premier League in recent weeks, having been out of action since October 2023.

The last of his 14 international caps came in the same month.

Ryan Christie, Ben Gannon Doak and Lyndon Dykes are also back after significant injury breaks.

Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark may be favourite to take the gloves, since Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly are second choice for Nottingham Forest and Rangers respectively.

Blackburn Rovers defender Dominic Hyam, capped once as a late substitute in June 2023, is recalled by manager Steve Clarke, while teenager Lennon Miller, now at Udinese, retains his place after playing in summer friendlies against Iceland and Liechtenstein.

The inclusion of the 19-year-old means four of the eight midfielders listed are based in Serie A.

Kieron Bowie has started the season well for Hibernian and the 22-year-old striker gets another opportunity after making his debut from the bench against Liechtenstein in June.

Scotland go to Copenhagen on 5 September and meet Belarus in Hungary three days later.

Greece are the other nation in Group C.

Only the group winners are guaranteed a place at the 2026 World Cup, which is being hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico, with Scotland bidding to qualify for the first time since 1998.

Goalkeepers: Clark (Heart of Midlothian), Gunn (Nottingham Forest), Kelly (Rangers)

Defenders: Hanley (Hibernian), Hendry (Al-Etiffaq), Hickey (Brentford), Hyam (Blackburn Rovers), Johnston (Sturm Graz), McKenna (Dinamo Zagreb), Ralston (Celtic), Robertson (Liverpool), Souttar (Rangers), Tierney (Celtic)

Midfielders: Christie (Bournemouth), Ferguson (Bologna), Gannon Doak (Bournemouth), Gilmour (Napoli), McGinn (Aston Villa), McLean (Norwich City), McTominay (Napoli), Miller (Udinese)