With the start of Euro 2024 approaching in just half a year, England manager Gareth Southgate has already drafted an early version of his tournament squad.
This development has prompted several Premier League players to rethink their international allegiances, particularly those who fear they may not make Southgate’s final list.
Newcastle United trio Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are among those reportedly considering switching their international loyalty to Scotland, as their chances of representing England in Germany appear increasingly slim.
Southgate is set to announce his official 23-man squad in March ahead of high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.
But with competition for places extremely fierce, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento all eligible for Scotland could instead find themselves welcomed by Steve Clarke.
Another Newcastle player, Elliott Anderson, is also a potential candidate for Scotland, meaning four players from the same club could be weighing a significant international decision.
John Carver, Scotland’s assistant manager and a former Newcastle caretaker boss, recently addressed the situation in an interview.
He confirmed Scotland’s awareness of the quartet, noting, “There are four in Newcastle.” Carver stressed, however, that the decision must come from the players themselves and that their first priority should be establishing themselves at club level.
He encouraged younger players to continue focusing on their development at Newcastle before making any life-changing choices about national representation.
Of the group, Anthony Gordon is seen as the most likely to be considered for a late England call-up. After helping England win the Under-21 European Championship, he remains highly regarded.
Still, with Southgate’s squad largely settled and the tournament drawing near, breaking into the final selection will be extremely challenging.
Harvey Barnes, who has already featured once for England, faces an even more uncertain road due to the injuries that have limited his involvement this season. Livramento, meanwhile, is enjoying increasing minutes at Newcastle but still faces huge competition at full-back, one of England’s most congested positions.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder, adds another layer of complexity. Although he has represented Scotland at youth level, he withdrew from the senior squad in September, signalling some hesitation about committing.
Carver reiterated that Anderson — like the others must make his decision at his own pace, focusing first on staying fit, performing at Newcastle, and letting clarity come naturally.
Carver also praised Steve Clarke’s inclusive and patient approach, noting that the Scotland manager always keeps the door open for players who can elevate the team.
He emphasized that Anderson and his teammates have time on their side and will ultimately benefit regardless of which national team they choose.
