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 situation surrounding Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento, and Elliott Anderson reflects the growing trend of dual-eligible players weighing their international futures carefully, especially with a major tournament like Euro 2024 approaching. Gareth Southgate’s already competitive and stable England squad presents a tough barrier for these players to break through, which could make representing Scotland a more realistic and appealing option.

### **Key Points to Consider:**

1. **Gareth Southgate’s Squad Stability:**
The England manager’s preference for continuity means it’s unlikely for new players to break into the final 23-man squad for Euro 2024, especially as friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March will serve as a final litmus test.

2. **Scotland’s Opportunities:**
Steve Clarke’s Scotland side, having qualified for the Euros, offers a promising platform for these players. Their dual eligibility could make them valuable additions, particularly given Scotland’s improved performance and squad depth under Clarke.

3. **Individual Scenarios:**
– **Anthony Gordon:** After a standout Under-21 European Championship win, Gordon’s form at Newcastle could make him a late contender for England. However, the likelihood of a call-up remains slim given the established attacking options.
– **Harvey Barnes:** His injury struggles and competition in England’s wide positions diminish his chances of breaking into Southgate’s plans. Scotland could provide a more attainable path to international football.
– **Tino Livramento:** Despite recent progress and increased playing time, England’s depth at full-back makes Scotland a more realistic option for regular involvement.
– **Elliott Anderson:** The 21-year-old midfielder has strong ties to Scotland from youth levels, but his hesitation and recent withdrawal from Clarke’s squad suggest he may still be undecided.

4. **Steve Clarke’s Perspective:**
Clarke and his assistant, John Carver, have emphasized the need for players to be fully committed to Scotland’s vision. While open to players exploring their options, they stress that decisions should align with their long-term development and aspirations.

### **Implications for Scotland:**
If all four players opt for Scotland, it could significantly enhance the team’s depth and quality heading into Euro 2024. Their Premier League experience would provide a boost, particularly in positions where Scotland has lacked depth historically.

### **Looking Ahead:**
March’s friendlies and the lead-up to Euro 2024 will be decisive. For players like Gordon, Barnes, Livramento, and Anderson, the choice between England and Scotland represents not just a career-defining decision but also a potential legacy in international football.