As Euro 2024 looms on the horizon, the football world is abuzz with discussions about Gareth Southgate’s preliminary squad selection for the tournament. This initial lineup has not only ignited speculation but has also caused some Premier League players to reconsider their international futures. Notably, four Newcastle United stars—Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento, and Elliott Anderson—are reportedly weighing the possibility of switching allegiance to Scotland. With their chances of securing a spot in Southgate’s final England squad looking slim, these players are exploring opportunities that may lie with Steve Clarke’s Scotland.
For Anthony Gordon, who has been making waves with his performances at Newcastle, the decision carries added complexity. Gordon is widely regarded as one of England’s brightest young talents and played a pivotal role in helping England’s U21 team win the European Championship. However, despite this achievement, his pathway into Southgate’s senior squad remains blocked by fierce competition in attack. As a result, the prospect of representing Scotland at Euro 2024 seems more plausible. Similarly, Harvey Barnes, who earned a solitary cap for England but has been plagued by injuries, faces an uphill battle to break into Southgate’s plans. Barnes, along with Tino Livramento, who has been gaining more first-team minutes at Newcastle, finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating the benefits of switching national allegiances.
Elliott Anderson’s situation presents yet another intriguing narrative. Anderson, who has already represented Scotland at the youth level, withdrew from the senior squad in September, casting uncertainty over his future. Nevertheless, Steve Clarke and his coaching staff remain keen on keeping the door open for him. John Carver, Scotland’s assistant coach and former interim Newcastle manager, has been vocal about the potential of these players joining Scotland’s ranks. Carver’s experience with Newcastle lends him a unique insight into the development of these players, and he stressed that while the decision ultimately lies with each individual, they should first prioritize their performances at Newcastle before committing to any international allegiance.
The possibility of Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson choosing Scotland over England could reshape both nations’ squads ahead of Euro 2024. For England, losing out on young talents like Gordon and Barnes could be seen as a missed opportunity, especially considering Southgate’s need for squad depth. On the other hand, Steve Clarke could significantly bolster his team with these additions, strengthening Scotland’s push for success on the European stage. Clarke’s ambition is clear: he wants players who are not just talented but also fully committed to Scotland’s cause, players who can elevate the team’s competitiveness at the Euros.
Anthony Gordon’s situation stands out, as he is still in the spotlight for a potential late call-up from Southgate. His versatility and performances for Newcastle make him a contender for one of the remaining slots in England’s squad. However, if that call doesn’t come, Gordon may decide to take the plunge and declare for Scotland, knowing that the competition for a starting role in Clarke’s team may not be as fierce as in England’s squad, where attacking options abound.
Harvey Barnes, although hindered by injuries in recent seasons, remains an exciting prospect. His single appearance for England may seem like a distant memory now, but his return to form could see him push for a place in Scotland’s squad. Tino Livramento, too, has impressed after returning from injury, finding more opportunities at Newcastle, even though England’s full-back positions are heavily contested. For all three, the allure of regular international football with Scotland is tempting, particularly with Euro 2024 on the horizon.
Elliott Anderson’s case is more fluid. Having already been on Scotland’s radar, his decision to withdraw from the senior squad raised eyebrows. Nevertheless, Carver’s insistence that Clarke is open-minded indicates that Anderson’s international future is still up for debate. Should he choose Scotland, he would follow a path trodden by other dual-nationality players who opted to represent the country that offered them the best chance of international success.
As Euro 2024 draws nearer, the decisions of these players will have far-reaching consequences. Their choices will not only influence their careers but also shape the dynamics of both the England and Scotland squads. For Southgate, it’s a delicate balancing act between retaining talent and managing expectations, while for Clarke, it’s an opportunity to strengthen his squad with players eager to make their mark on the international stage. In the end, the story of these Newcastle players could define a crucial chapter in the run-up to the European Championship.