Scottish footballer, centre-back for Swansea City and Scotland
A look at how early-season form across the Championship, League One and League Two is shaping expectations, with Charlton, Swansea, Swansea and Wolves noted for brisk starts and Derby’s ownership saga continuing to unfold.
Motherwell’s Zlatan Johansson has stayed with the club until at least January 2027 after a disrupted pre-season due to a jaw injury. He has netted twice and provided two assists in 11 appearances this season as manager Johansson says the squad is in good shape and focused on building fitness and team relationships during the upcoming fixtures.
Scotland has reshaped its Nations League squad under new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli. Kristi Montgomery earns a first senior call-up after progressing through Blackburn Rovers’ ranks, joining a mix of recalled veterans and new faces as the team prepares for matches against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia.
Scotland’s new head coach has overseen a goalless draw with Slovenia in Ljubljana in his first match in charge. Billy Gilmour returns from injury to drive the midfield; Oli McBurnie and Robbie Ure debut while Stephen Welsh occupies a new left-back/centre-back role. Scotland improve after a half-time reshuffle but fail to convert chances, leaving the Nation League opener with a point.
The United States has defeated Peru 2-1 in an international friendly at Inter.com Stadium. Trusty, 28, has faced scrutiny after a prior Rangers loss but shows solidity alongside a new defensive lineup as the U.S. returns to action following a World Cup exit. Late goals from Tillman and Hall secure the win as Peru equalises briefly before the U.S. pulls ahead.