With Euro 2024 just six months away, England manager Gareth Southgate has already put up an initial squad, prompting some Premier League players to consider their international careers. Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are reportedly considering a switch to Scotland, since they appear unlikely to make Southgate’s team for the tournament in Germany.
Southgate plans to disclose the final 23-man team in March, ahead of friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. However, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento are all eligible to play for Scotland and are being considered by Steve Clarke for the tournament. Elliott Anderson of Newcastle is another potential addition to the Scottish team, bringing the total number of Newcastle players who could represent Scotland to four.
John Carver, Steve Clarke’s deputy and former interim manager of Newcastle, stated in an interview that “there are four in Newcastle.” Carver emphasised the importance of players wanting to be a part of the national team’s journey, and he advised younger players to focus on their development at Newcastle before deciding on their international allegiance.
While conceding that the decision is up to the players, Carver emphasised the importance of players committing to their current teams first. Gordon, who recently won the under-21 European Championships with England, is thought to be the most likely candidate for a late call-up from Southgate. However, Southgate’s squad is steady, making it difficult for newcomers to gain a berth in March, let alone at Euro 2024 in June.
Barnes, who has one England cap, has been sidelined by injury this season, potentially restricting his chances of international selection. Livramento, a former Chelsea and Southampton prospect, has received more playing time despite England’s abundance of talented full-backs.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder who had previously represented Scotland at the youth level, withdrew from the senior team in September, citing a lack of commitment to Clarke’s side. Carver emphasised that the final decision is up to the players, advising Anderson to focus on his position at Newcastle, recover from injuries, and make judgements about international representation when ready.
Carver praised Steve Clarke’s open-minded approach, saying that the door is always open to players who can help Scotland progress. He emphasised Anderson’s need for time to mature and make his own decisions, assuring that the young midfielder will be lucky regardless of whatever path he choose.
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