With Euro 2024 just six months away, Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, has already outlined an initial squad, leaving several Premier League players to reconsider their international futures. Among those facing a critical decision are Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento, who are reportedly exploring the possibility of switching allegiance to Scotland due to the slim chances of making Tuchel’s squad for the tournament in Germany.
Tuchel is set to announce his final 23-man squad in March, ahead of high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. However, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento, all eligible to represent Scotland, are now being closely monitored by Steve Clarke, who is considering them for his team. Additionally, Newcastle’s young talent Elliott Anderson is another player on Scotland’s radar, potentially making it four Newcastle representatives who could bolster Clarke’s squad.
In an interview, John Carver, Steve Clarke’s assistant and a former interim Newcastle manager, addressed the prospects of recruiting these players. “There are four in Newcastle,” Carver stated, hinting at the strong connections between the club and Scotland’s national team. Carver emphasized the importance of players fully committing to their national team aspirations, urging them to focus on their development at Newcastle before finalizing their international decisions. While Carver acknowledged that the ultimate decision lies with the players themselves, he underscored the need for young talents to prioritize their growth at club level before taking on the pressures of international football.
Anthony Gordon, who recently celebrated a triumphant Under-21 European Championship campaign with England, remains the most likely candidate to receive a late call-up from Tuchel. However, with the England squad largely settled, breaking into the group for Euro 2024 would be a tall order. Meanwhile, Barnes’ chances are hindered by a series of injuries, while Livramento, despite his promising displays, faces stiff competition in England’s full-back positions.
Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder with prior experience representing Scotland at youth levels, has been a subject of considerable debate. He recently withdrew from a senior Scotland squad in September, expressing uncertainty about committing to Clarke’s side. Carver reiterated that the choice ultimately belongs to Anderson, advising him to focus on recovering from injuries and honing his craft at Newcastle before making a definitive decision on his international future.
Carver praised Clarke’s inclusive approach, noting that the door remains open for players who wish to contribute to Scotland’s success. He stressed that Anderson, in particular, needs time to mature and weigh his options carefully, ensuring that whatever decision he makes aligns with his personal and professional goals.
The unfolding situation surrounding Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson highlights a growing trend of dual-eligible players taking a measured approach to their international futures, especially with a major tournament like Euro 2024 on the horizon. The stability of Tuchel’s England squad, coupled with the fierce competition for spots, presents a formidable barrier for players on the fringes. In contrast, Scotland offers a more tangible opportunity for these individuals to establish themselves on the international stage.
Key Considerations in the Debate:
1. Thomas Tuchel’s Approach to Squad Selection: Under Tuchel, England’s squad has maintained remarkable continuity, leaving little room for new faces to make an impact. The March friendlies against Brazil and Belgium will be pivotal in determining the final squad, but players like Gordon and Barnes face tough odds given the established pool of talent.
2. Scotland’s Appeal: Having secured their place at Euro 2024, Scotland represents an attractive alternative for dual-eligible players. Steve Clarke’s leadership has transformed the team into a competitive force, and the addition of Premier League experience could enhance their prospects significantly.
3. Individual Player Dynamics:
Anthony Gordon: The Newcastle winger’s strong performances and recent international triumphs make him an outside contender for England. However, his path to selection remains fraught with challenges, prompting speculation about a potential switch to Scotland.
Harvey Barnes: With only one England cap to his name and recurring injury setbacks, Barnes may find it more feasible to play a key role for Scotland rather than competing against England’s wealth of wide options.
Tino Livramento: The young full-back has gained valuable experience this season, but England’s deep pool of defenders limits his chances. A move to Scotland could provide him with regular international action.
Elliott Anderson: The midfielder’s hesitation to commit to Scotland adds complexity to his situation. While his connections to Scotland are strong, his indecision suggests he is carefully weighing the long-term implications of his choice.
4. Steve Clarke’s Vision: Clarke and Carver have emphasized the importance of mutual commitment, urging players to view Scotland as a genuine opportunity rather than a fallback. This philosophy underscores their efforts to build a unified and ambitious squad for Euro 2024.
What It Means for Scotland:
The addition of Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson could significantly elevate Scotland’s squad quality ahead of the Euros. Their Premier League pedigree would strengthen the team’s depth in key areas, enabling Clarke to compete more effectively on the European stage.
The Road Ahead:
The coming months will be crucial for these players as they navigate the complexities of dual eligibility and their ambitions for international football. March’s friendlies and subsequent preparations for Euro 2024 will play a defining role in shaping their choices. For Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson, the decision between England and Scotland is not just about representation but also about carving out a
lasting legacy in the international arena.