With Euro 2024 fast approaching in six months, England manager Gareth Southgate has already compiled an initial squad, prompting several Premier League players to reconsider their international futures. Among those reportedly contemplating a switch to Scotland are Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento, as they face an uncertain place in Southgate’s squad for the upcoming tournament in Germany.
Southgate is expected to announce his final 23-man squad in March, just ahead of friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. However, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento, who are all eligible to play for Scotland, are being monitored by Steve Clarke, Scotland’s head coach, as potential additions to his squad. Newcastle’s Elliott Anderson, another player eligible to represent Scotland, is also under consideration, bringing the total number of potential Scottish players from Newcastle to four.
John Carver, assistant to Steve Clarke and former interim manager at Newcastle, recently addressed the situation, saying, “There are four in Newcastle.” Carver stressed the importance of players wishing to be part of the national team’s journey, while also encouraging younger players to prioritize their development at Newcastle before making any decisions regarding international commitments. Though the final decision rests with the players themselves, Carver emphasized that they should focus on their current club performances first.
Gordon, who recently helped England’s under-21s win the European Championship, is seen as the most likely candidate for a late call-up by Southgate. Despite his potential, the established nature of the England squad makes it difficult for newcomers like Gordon to earn a place, especially with Euro 2024 just around the corner. Barnes, who has earned one cap for England, has struggled with injuries this season, further limiting his chances of being included in the England squad. Livramento, a former Chelsea and Southampton player now at Newcastle, has gained more playing time recently, but England already boasts a strong depth of talent in the full-back positions, which could hinder his chances of making Southgate’s final selection.
Meanwhile, Anderson, who has represented Scotland at youth level, withdrew from the senior squad in September due to uncertainty over his international future. Carver emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with Anderson, urging him to focus on his development at Newcastle, recover from injuries, and take the time to make an informed choice about his international allegiance.
Carver also highlighted Steve Clarke’s inclusive and open-minded approach, noting that Clarke is always open to players who can contribute to the Scottish team’s progress. Carver believes that Anderson, in particular, will benefit from time to grow as a player and will have opportunities to join Scotland when he feels ready.
The potential switches of Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson have captured significant attention as they all contemplate their international futures. With Southgate’s England squad largely settled for Euro 2024, these players—each eligible for Scotland—face important decisions about their national team careers. While Gordon’s strong form could see him included in England’s final squad, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson will need to weigh their chances against Scotland’s offer of international opportunities.
