Hibs duo miss out on latest Scotland squad - as Easter Road pair eye Republic of Ireland call-ups
Defender and midfielder omitted from Sebastien Pocognoli’s second Scotland squad
The latest Scotland squad announcement has brought more disappointment for Josh Mulligan and Grant Hanley, with both Hibs players missing out on Sebastien Pocognoli's selection for the final Nations League double-header later this month.
Midfielder Mulligan and centre-back Hanley have been unable to force their way into the Belgian's plans since his appointment as Steve Clarke’s successor in August, and have been swerved for a second occasion ahead of fixtures against North Macedonia and Switzerland.
Mulligan had been hoping to do enough at club level to attract the attention of Pocognoli, but his latest omission will come as a setback. The versatile 23-year-old has previously attracted attention for his ability to operate in different positions, offering energy and flexibility across the middle of the park. However, Mulligan will now have to concentrate on improving his club performances as he looks to force his way back into future contention.
Experienced defender Hanley is another absentee. Despite being a regular part of the Scotland set-up over recent years, competition for places at centre half continues to provide Pocognoli with better alternative options at present. The 34-year-old’s omission represents another change in the defensive picture and suggests Hanley’s time with the national team could be coming to an end as he continues to be overlooked by the new regime.
Pocognoli has already demonstrated a willingness to look beyond established names, giving opportunities to several younger players who had not previously featured at senior international level. The latest newcomer is Rangers defender James Penrice.
Duo in contention for Republic of Ireland call-ups
However, there could be a positive international development for the Easter Road club, with Jamie McGrath and Owen Elding in contention to be named in the Republic of Ireland squad under Heimir Hallgrimsson for fixtures against Austria and Kosovo.
McGrath will be eager to build on the 15 senior caps he has already accumulated. The midfielder has previously demonstrated his value to the Irish set-up and will be hoping his performances for the Leith outfit keep him firmly in the manager's thoughts for the forthcoming matches.
Elding, meanwhile, represents an exciting prospect for the Republic. The young forward has enjoyed a rapid rise in recent seasons, having first attracted attention during his time with Sligo Rovers before securing a move to Scottish football.
His international prospects have been developing for some time. Born in England, Elding qualifies to represent the Republic through residency after moving to the country with his family at the age of six.
Elding previously trained with the senior Irish squad before receiving his first official call-up in September, having completed the necessary citizenship process. His potential inclusion would represent an important milestone after an extended wait for the opportunity to represent his adopted country.
Elding's progress at Hibs will be closely monitored as he looks to establish himself at both club and international level. His attacking qualities and potential offer Hallgrimsson another option to consider as he plans for the Republic's future.