The short version
- Luis Binks is among eight uncapped players selected for Scotland's squad ahead of their Nations League match against Slovenia.
- New manager Sebastien Pocognoli has removed Grant Hanley and John Souttar from the defense, creating an opening for Binks to establish himself.
- Binks credits his development to early guidance from Thierry Henry during the 2020 lockdown while both were isolated in Montreal.
Luis Binks is preparing for what could be a defining moment in his career as he trains with the Scotland national team in Spain. The twenty-five-year-old centre-back, currently serving as captain for Brondby, is pushing hard to secure a starting position for Saturday’s Nations League opener against Slovenia. His inclusion marks a significant shift in personnel, as he is one of eight uncapped players selected by new manager Sebastien Pocognoli. This selection reflects a broader strategy to refresh the squad following a managerial transition from Steve Clarke.
The defensive landscape for Scotland has changed considerably under Pocognoli’s leadership. Established figures Grant Hanley and John Souttar were excluded from the current roster, opening space in the heart of the defense. Binks sees this as an opportunity to prove his worth on the international stage. He expressed a strong desire to leave a lasting impression during his first training camp, noting that the experience differs markedly from club football. The prospect of earning a debut remains his primary focus as the team prepares for their journey to Ljubljana.
Binks’ path to this point has been unconventional and geographically diverse. His career began in the youth system at Tottenham Hotspur, but he sought first-team opportunities elsewhere. This desire led him to Montreal Impact in Major League Soccer during his late teens. He joined the club in February 2020, just before global pandemic restrictions took effect. At eighteen years old, he was eager to test himself in senior competition rather than remain within a youth academy structure.
The early weeks of his time in Montreal were marked by isolation and unexpected mentorship. With hotels shutting down due to lockdown measures, Binks found himself stranded without accommodation. Thierry Henry, then the manager of the Impact, was staying alone at the Ritz-Carlton. Recognizing Binks’ difficult situation, Henry invited him to stay on a different floor of the same hotel. For a period, the two were the only residents in the five-star property, creating a unique environment for professional development.
Binks recalls spending hours with Henry during this isolation, seeking advice on defensive techniques and career growth. He described the experience as surreal, noting that he was initially nervous to engage with such a prominent figure in football history. Their interactions included casual activities like driving around Montreal searching for pizza, which helped break the ice. Binks specifically remembers Henry discussing Sol Campbell, analyzing what made the former Arsenal defender exceptional and offering insights on how Binks could improve his own game.
This mentorship played a crucial role in Binks’ early development. He acknowledges that Henry gave him his first chance in senior football, providing guidance during a critical formative period. The lessons learned during those quiet days in Montreal have stayed with him as he navigated subsequent moves across Europe. After leaving Montreal, Binks played for Bologna, where he formed a friendship with fellow defender Aaron Hickey. He also had spells at Como and Coventry City before joining Brondby.
His move to Brondby in the summer of 2025 was driven by a desire to compete for titles and participate in European competitions. Binks embraced the challenge of moving to Denmark, viewing it as a chance to further his career trajectory. His leadership qualities were quickly recognized, leading to his appointment as team captain after just one year with the club. This role aligns with his history at Tottenham, where he captained various age-grade sides throughout his youth development.
The responsibility of captaincy at Brondby has prepared Binks for the demands of international football. He views the Scotland call-up as a continuation of his upward professional journey. The training camp in La Manga offers him a chance to integrate with teammates and demonstrate his capabilities to the coaching staff. As the squad prepares for their match against Slovenia, Binks remains focused on making the most of this opportunity to establish himself in Pocognoli’s plans.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗Well-travelled Binks eager to make mark for Scotland
