Why James Penrice will keep faith at Rangers after latest Scotland announcement

James Penrice hasn't been included in the latest Scotland squad despite starring for Rangers.

The Scottish left-back was arguably monumental in the Gers' 3-0 win over Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final.

Given the 27-year-old's performances since joining the Light Blues on loan from AEK Athens, it wouldn't have been surprising to see him in the national team squad, but Sebastien Pocognoli has opted against it.

Penrice will surely be a little disappointed, but he has a clear reason to hope at Ibrox.

Scotland's national team is entering a new era after Steve Clarke's departure.

The ex-Hearts defender could potentially soon join Findlay Curtis and Liam Kelly after what Pocognoli has done.

What Sebastien Pocognoli actions say about James Penrice at Rangers

Penrice was impressive in Rangers' win over Celtic after being deployed as an inverted full-back.

Speaking during the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final, co-commentator Alan Hutton said, "James Penrice is doing an absolute power of work, it's quite incredible."

If the Scottish defender continues in a similar vein, he will surely grab Pocognoli's attention.

The new Scotland boss has already shown he isn't afraid to shake things up after calling up just 14 players from the 2026 World Cup squad.

What will also encourage Penrice to keep faith about a maiden international call-up is that Pocognoli has included seven uncapped players in the 28-man squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.

Who James Penrice is competing with for Scotland call-up

Andy Robertson and Kieran Tierney have been ever-present in Scotland squads over the years.

The Tottenham Hotspur defender isn't at the peak of his powers anymore, while the Celtic left-back has been injury-prone in the past.

Josh Doig, 24, who plays for Sassuolo, has also been included in the squad by Pocognoli to likely compete for the left-back spot.

Penrice has been one of the Gers' best summer recruits, immediately becoming a key player for Derek McInnes.

Tuur Rommens is no longer guaranteed a starting spot at Ibrox considering the AEK loanee's recent displays.

Sooner or later, Pocognoli will surely recognise Penrice's talent and rightfully award him his Scotland debut.