With the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament drawing nearer, Gareth Southgate, the manager of England’s national football team, has begun assembling an initial squad.
This has prompted several Premier League players to consider their international futures.
Among them, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are reportedly contemplating a switch to represent Scotland, as they are unlikely to be included in Southgate’s squad for the tournament in Germany.
Southgate is set to announce the final 23-man squad in March, ahead of friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium.
However, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento are eligible to play for Scotland and are being considered by Steve Clarke, the Scottish national team manager, for the tournament.
Another potential addition to the Scottish squad is Elliott Anderson from Newcastle, bringing the total number of Newcastle players who might opt to represent Scotland to four.
John Carver, the assistant to Steve Clarke and former interim manager at Newcastle, discussed the potential additions in an interview, stating, “There are four players from Newcastle.”
Carver stressed the importance of players wanting to be part of the national team’s journey and advised younger players to focus on their development at Newcastle before deciding on their international allegiance.
While acknowledging that the decision ultimately lies with the players, Carver emphasized the importance of players committing to their current clubs first.
Gordon, who recently won the under-21 European Championships with England, is seen as the most likely to receive a late call-up from Southgate.
However, with Southgate’s squad already stable, newcomers face a challenge in securing a spot in March, let alone for Euro 2024 in June.
Barnes, who has earned one cap for England, has faced injury setbacks this season, potentially reducing his chances for international selection.
Livramento, a former prospect of Chelsea and Southampton, has seen increased playing time despite England’s depth in talented full-backs.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder, had previously represented Scotland at youth levels but withdrew from the senior squad in September, expressing uncertainty about committing to Clarke’s side.
Carver stressed that the decision ultimately rests with the players, urging Anderson to concentrate on his role at Newcastle, recover from injuries, and make decisions about international representation when ready.
Carver highlighted Steve Clarke’s open-minded approach, stating that the door is always open for players who can contribute to Scotland’s improvement.
He emphasized Anderson’s need for time to mature and make his own decisions, ensuring that the young midfielder will be supported regardless of the choice he makes.
