With Euro 2024 looming just six months away, Gareth Southgate, England’s manager, has been busy assembling an initial squad, prompting speculation among several Premier League players about their international futures. Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are reportedly considering switching allegiances to represent Scotland, foreseeing limited opportunities in Southgate’s squad for the tournament in Germany.
Southgate plans to reveal the final 23-man squad in March, preceding friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. Meanwhile, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento are being courted by Steve Clarke for the Scottish team. Another potential recruit for Scotland is Newcastle’s Elliott Anderson, bringing the tally to four players from Newcastle who may opt for Scottish representation.
John Carver, assistant to Steve Clarke and former interim manager at Newcastle, discussed these potential additions, stressing the importance of players being invested in the national team’s journey. He urged young players to focus on their development at Newcastle before deciding on international commitments.
While acknowledging the players’ autonomy in their decisions, Carver emphasized the significance of honoring their current club affiliations. Despite Gordon’s recent success in the under-21 European Championships with England, securing a spot in Southgate’s squad, both for March and Euro 2024, poses challenges due to the squad’s stability.
Barnes, with just one England cap and plagued by injuries this season, faces hurdles in international selection. Livramento, though talented, competes in a position of depth within England’s full-backs roster.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder, previously represented Scotland at youth levels but withdrew from the senior squad in September, citing indecision about his commitment. Carver stressed Anderson’s need for patience in his development at Newcastle, advising him to prioritize recovery from injuries before making international representation decisions.
Carver highlighted Clarke’s inclusive approach, ensuring opportunities for players to contribute to Scotland’s progress. He emphasized Anderson’s need for time and autonomy in decision-making, assuring him of support regardless of his choice.
