This morning, three English internationals formally announced a shift in their nationality, confirming their choice to play for a different country.

With Euro 2024 just six months away, Gareth Southgate, the England manager, has already compiled an initial squad, leading several Premier League players to contemplate their international futures. Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento are reportedly weighing a switch to represent Scotland, as they seem unlikely to be included in Southgate’s squad for the tournament in Germany.

Southgate is scheduled to unveil the final 23-man squad in March, ahead of friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. However, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento are eligible to play for Scotland and are being considered by Steve Clarke for the tournament. Another potential addition to the Scottish squad is Newcastle’s Elliott Anderson, making it a total of four players from Newcastle who might opt to represent Scotland.

John Carver, the assistant to Steve Clarke and former interim manager at Newcastle, discussed the potential additions in an interview, stating, “There are four in Newcastle.” Carver emphasized the importance of players desiring to be part of the national team’s journey and encouraged younger players to concentrate on their development at Newcastle before deciding on their international allegiance.

While acknowledging that the decision lies with the players, Carver stressed the significance of players committing to their current clubs first. Gordon, who recently won the under-21 European Championships with England, is considered the most likely to receive a late call-up from Southgate. However, Southgate’s squad is stable, making it challenging for newcomers to secure a spot in March, let alone for Euro 2024 in June.

Barnes, having earned one England cap, has been hampered by injuries this season, potentially limiting his chances for international selection. Livramento, a former Chelsea and Southampton prospect, has seen increased playing time despite England’s depth in talented full-backs.

Elliott Anderson, a 21-year-old midfielder, had previously played for Scotland at youth levels but withdrew from the senior squad in September, expressing his hesitation to commit to Clarke’s side. Carver emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with the players, urging Anderson to focus on his role at Newcastle, recover from injuries, and make decisions about international representation when ready.

Carver highlighted Steve Clarke’s open-minded approach, stating that the door is always open for players who can contribute to Scotland’s improvement. He emphasized Anderson’s need for time to grow and make his own decisions, ensuring that the young midfielder will be fortunate regardless of the choice he makes.As Euro 2024 approaches, the potential shifts in international allegiances among players like Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento could significantly impact both the England and Scotland national teams. With Gareth Southgate preparing his final squad for the tournament, the prospects of these players being overlooked for selection have led them to consider representing Scotland instead.

John Carver, assistant to Scotland’s manager Steve Clarke, noted the intriguing situation regarding Newcastle players, emphasizing the importance of their development at the club before making decisions about international duty. Gordon, who recently celebrated victory in the Under-21 European Championships, is seen as a likely late call-up for England, yet with Southgate’s squad stability, breaking into the team could be difficult.

Barnes’ injury struggles this season may hinder his chances, while Livramento, despite a competitive environment for full-backs, has been getting more game time. Meanwhile, Elliott Anderson’s previous youth experience with Scotland adds another layer to this narrative, as he weighs his options following his withdrawal from the senior squad in September.

Carver’s comments about Clarke’s open-door policy suggest that players who can enhance Scotland’s team will always be welcome. He encourages these young talents to focus on their club responsibilities and personal development before making international commitments. The coming months will be crucial as players finalize their decisions, especially with Southgate’s announcement of the final squad expected in March, ahead of friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium.