With Euro 2024 looming just six months away, England manager Gareth Southgate has already formed a preliminary squad, leaving several Premier League players contemplating their international futures. Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are reportedly considering a switch to represent Scotland, as they appear unlikely to be called up by Southgate for the tournament in Germany.
Southgate is set to reveal 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 for the tournament. Another potential addition to the Scottish squad is Newcastle’s Elliott Anderson, marking a total of four players from Newcastle who might choose to represent Scotland.
John Carver, the assistant to Steve Clarke and former temporary manager at Newcastle, discussed the potential additions in an interview, stating, “There are four in Newcastle.” Carver emphasized the importance of players wanting to be part of the national team’s journey and urged the younger players to focus on their development at Newcastle before deciding on their international allegiance.
While acknowledging that the decision lies with the players, Carver stressed the significance of players committing to their current clubs first. Gordon, who recently won the under-21 European Championships with England, is considered the most likely to receive a late call-up from Southgate. However, Southgate’s squad is stable, making it challenging for rookies to secure a spot in March, let alone for Euro 2024 in June.
Barnes, having earned one England cap, has been hampered by injuries this season, potentially limiting his chances for international selection. Livramento, a former Chelsea and Southampton prospect, has seen increased playing time despite England’s depth in talented full-backs.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder, had previously played for Scotland at youth levels but withdrew from the senior squad in September, expressing his hesitation to commit to Clarke’s side. Carver emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with the players, urging Anderson to focus 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 grow and make his own decisions, ensuring that the young midfielder will be fortunate regardless of the choice he makes.
