The short version
- Sam Kerr and Martha Thomas return to the Scotland national team after absences of nearly a year and several months respectively.
- The squad faces the Czech Republic in October play-offs, with victory leading to a final round against Sweden or Lithuania for World Cup qualification.
- Coach Andreatta emphasized the strategic need for multi-position players and depth to prepare for the demands of tournament football in Brazil.
The Scotland women's national football team has announced a significant reshuffle ahead of its upcoming World Cup play-off campaign, recalling two high-profile players who have been absent from recent call-ups. Sam Kerr, the Liverpool midfielder known for her adaptability, returns to the squad for the first time since February 2025. Her last appearance came as a substitute against the Netherlands, marking a gap of nearly eighteen months in international service. Alongside Kerr, Newcastle United striker Martha Thomas has been selected, ending an absence that dates back to October when she earned her fiftieth cap for the country.
Head coach Melissa Andreatta highlighted Kerr’s positional flexibility as a primary asset for the upcoming challenges. Although Kerr is primarily a midfielder, she has recently featured at right-back during Liverpool’s early season fixtures. Andreatta described this versatility as a critical strength, allowing the coaching staff to balance specialized roles with players who can fill multiple gaps. The coach declined to specify Kerr’s exact role for the initial matches, maintaining strategic ambiguity regarding her deployment.
The immediate objective for Scotland is a two-legged play-off against the Czech Republic. The first leg takes place in Pardubice on October 9, followed by the return fixture at St Mirren Park four days later. Success in this round would advance Scotland to a final play-off stage, where they would face either Sweden or Lithuania. A victory in that subsequent tie would secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, marking the nation’s first appearance at a major tournament since 2019.
Andreatta’s selection strategy reflects a broader emphasis on squad depth and resilience. Having topped their qualifying group on goal difference, just ahead of Belgium, Scotland is now positioned to compete for a place in the global finals. The coach noted that tournament football requires more than a standard starting eleven or twelve players. By selecting athletes capable of performing in various positions, Andreatta aims to build a roster that can withstand the physical and tactical demands of extended competition.
Several other notable returns bolster the squad’s options. Freya Gregory and Sophie Howard, both defenders, are back after missing the previous qualifying camp against Israel due to injury or other constraints. Maria McAneny, a Celtic midfielder who scored in a decisive victory over Luxembourg earlier this year, also rejoins the group. These additions provide Andreatta with experienced personnel who can contribute immediately, reinforcing the team’s attacking mindset and defensive stability.
Conversely, some established figures have been omitted from this particular call-up. Defenders Leah Eddie and Kenzie Weir are not included, nor are strikers Eilidh Adams and Laura Berry. These exclusions suggest a shift in tactical focus or a response to current form and fitness levels among the wider pool of available players. The decision underscores the competitive nature of selection as the team narrows its options for high-stakes matches.
Young talent remains part of the equation, with Aston Villa’s Mia McAulay retaining her place after being a late addition for earlier qualifiers. Her inclusion alongside seasoned veterans like Erin Cuthbert and Christy Grimshaw illustrates a blend of youth and experience. The squad features players from diverse clubs across Europe and North America, including Chelsea, AC Milan, Lyon, and the Washington Spirit, reflecting the globalized nature of modern women’s football.
Andreatta’s background adds another layer to this campaign. She previously served as an assistant coach for Australia during the 2023 World Cup in that country, giving her firsthand insight into the logistical and competitive realities of major tournaments. This experience informs her current approach, particularly regarding the importance of preparation and adaptability. As Scotland looks toward Brazil, the focus remains on building a cohesive unit capable of navigating the unpredictable nature of knockout football.
The upcoming matches against the Czech Republic represent a pivotal moment for Scottish women’s football. After missing the last two European Championships and the 2023 World Cup, the team is within four games of returning to the global stage. The selections made by Andreatta signal a commitment to versatility and depth, qualities she believes are essential for success in tournament settings. As the squad prepares for travel to the Czech Republic, the emphasis will be on maintaining form while integrating recalled players into the existing tactical framework.
With the first leg approaching, attention will turn to how Kerr and Thomas settle back into international rhythms. Their return adds significant quality to the roster, but their impact will depend on fitness levels and tactical fit. Andreatta’s strategy of keeping options open suggests a cautious approach, allowing players to demonstrate their value in training before finalizing roles for the matches. The coming weeks will test whether this blend of experience, youth, and versatility can deliver the results needed to reach Brazil.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Sport↗Scots recall 'versatile' Kerr & Thomas for World Cup play-offs
