Ross Stewart Earns Surprise Scotland World Cup Call-Up After Injury Recovery at Southampton

Southampton striker Ross Stewart has been included in Scotland's World Cup squad, ending a four-year absence from international football. The 29-year-old's selection comes after he recovered from persistent injuries and rediscovered peak form at club level. Scotland will compete in a challenging group featuring Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti.

From Junior Leagues to Major Tournament Football

Stewart's path to World Cup football has been unconventional. He began his career in the Scottish Junior Leagues and required financial assistance from supporters to complete his transfer to Albion Rovers in 2016, with his father and supporters club members combining resources to fund the £1,500 fee. His performances earned a move to Sunderland in January 2021, where he rapidly established himself as a prolific goalscorer.

At Sunderland, Stewart demonstrated the physical attributes and aerial dominance that would define his playing style. Standing six feet and two inches tall, he scored 26 goals in the Championship-winning season and netted 10 goals in 13 games during his first top-flight campaign before suffering a season-ending injury. His performances during this period earned him the comparison to Didier Drogba, resulting in the nickname "Lochness Drogba" among supporters.

Southampton Investment and Recent Form

Southampton invested £12 million to sign Stewart in 2023, but injuries continued to disrupt his progress. However, since returning to action in January, he has delivered the form that justified the club's investment. Stewart scored 11 goals and provided two assists across all competitions following his comeback. This run of performances convinced manager Steve Clarke that the striker merits inclusion in Scotland's World Cup squad.

Stewart's selection represents one of three Saints players in Scotland's squad, alongside goalkeeper Angus Gunn and forward Che Adams. In total, 16 former and current Southampton players and managers will feature at the World Cup, with Scotland accounting for the largest concentration of Saints connections. Former Southampton manager Ronald Koeman will lead the Netherlands, while full-back Yukinari Sugawara will represent Japan.