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.

The potential switch of Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento, and Elliott Anderson to Scotland has sparked considerable interest. With Gareth Southgate’s England squad mostly set for Euro 2024, these players—each with eligibility for Scotland—face decisions about their international futures.

Gordon, fresh off an under-21 European Championship win with England, remains on the edge of a call-up, but Southgate’s established squad makes it difficult for him or others to break through. Barnes, capped once by England, has faced injuries limiting his chances for a recall. Livramento, a promising full-back, contends with England’s deep pool in that position. Meanwhile, Anderson, who played for Scotland at youth levels, withdrew from their senior squad in September, signaling hesitance in committing to Scotland.

John Carver, Steve Clarke’s assistant, recently underscored the importance of these players prioritizing their Newcastle careers before finalizing international commitments. Carver reiterated that Clarke’s approach is inclusive and open-minded, emphasizing that players like Anderson should grow into their roles and make decisions without rush. Clarke’s open-door policy aims to offer these players an opportunity to contribute to Scotland’s Euro 2024 ambitions if they decide to switch.