Aaron Hickey has been recalled to Scotland's World Cup squad after battling injury; before the trip he wants to finish the season strongly with Brentford and savour team moments such as Andy Robertson’s Anfield farewell
The announcement that Aaron Hickey has been included in Steve Clarke‘s 26-man squad for the World Cup is the latest chapter in a comeback story defined by patience and careful management. At 23, the Brentford full-back has navigated a lengthy rehabilitation period following setbacks that forced him to miss Euro 2026.
Rather than rush, the emphasis has been on rebuilding fitness and consistency so that he can contribute to Scotland’s bid to reach the knockout stage for the first time in decades.
Despite the excitement of an impending tournament, Hickey’s immediate attention remains on club obligations.
Brentford still have a chance to secure European football and that hinges on a final-day trip to Anfield against Liverpool, a fixture that doubles as an emotional farewell to Scotland captain Andy Robertson. Hickey has been clear about wanting to play his part on the pitch and then share in the send-off for a teammate he respects, before switching focus fully to the summer tournament preparations.
The route back: fitness, form and international recall
Hickey’s path to selection has been gradual. After missing significant time across two seasons, he has re-emerged intermittently for Brentford and worked under tight monitoring to avoid fresh setbacks. The call-up to Scotland — a side that secured World Cup qualification after a dramatic play-off run — reflects both his underlying quality and the care taken by club and country in his recovery. Capped 19 times, Hickey described the moment of discovery as one of the biggest in his career, with family and close contacts sharing in the relief. Warm-up matches against Curacao and Bolivia will offer final opportunities to stake a claim for a starting spot ahead of the opening fixture versus Haiti on June 14.
Club priorities and the Anfield farewell
Before turning fully to international duty, the reality for Hickey and his teammates is that Brentford must still influence other results to secure a spot in Europe. A victory at Anfield is the simplest requirement, but qualification also depends on outcomes elsewhere. For Hickey there is an extra personal layer: the prospect of acknowledging Andy Robertson‘s contribution to Scotland and seeing him honoured by the crowd. He has spoken warmly about Robertson’s impact, both on the pitch and behind the scenes, describing the Liverpool left-back as a guiding presence within the squad and someone younger players look up to.
Leadership and competition in the squad
The selection also underlines the depth in Scotland’s full-back options. With the manager choosing to include three right-backs, there is healthy competition from the likes of Nathan Patterson and Anthony Ralston. Clarke’s cautious approach recognises Hickey’s recent history, but also rewards versatility and potential. For Hickey, being part of a tight-knit group that the player describes as “family” gives confidence; he trusts fellow leaders within the squad to step up while everyone remains focused on collective objectives.
New roles and tactical adaptability
One development that could enhance Hickey’s value is a recent experiment in a more central position. Deployed in midfield for Brentford against Manchester City, he encountered a new set of responsibilities and found the experience stimulating. The move capitalised on his ability to use both feet and to link play from deeper areas — traits that coaches prize in a congested tournament environment. Hickey has indicated he is happy to be used wherever the manager sees fit, emphasising minutes and contribution over a fixed label.
What versatility means for Scotland
From a national-team perspective, a player who can operate at right-back, left-back and in central midfield offers tactical flexibility. Steve Clarke can adapt formations and personnel without sacrificing balance, and Hickey’s multi-positional capacity reduces vulnerability to injury and suspension during a long competition. While he still needs to prove his consistency after the long layoff, his adaptability could make him an important chess piece for Scotland’s tournament plans.
Memories, motivation and the road ahead
Beyond tactics and team sheets, Hickey has personal touchstones that feed his motivation. He remembers collecting sticker books and watching classic World Cup moments as a youngster, with images such as James Rodriguez’s volley and the Germany-Brazil match staying with him. He plans to revisit footage from Scotland’s last finals appearance to draw inspiration. Ultimately, Hickey’s approach is pragmatic: keep training, focus on the next challenge, and when opportunities arrive — whether at Brentford or for Scotland — seize them with energy and intent.
