This Morning, Three English Internationals Formally Announced A Shift In Their Nationality, Confirming Their Choice To Play For A Different Country.

As the countdown to Euro 2024 ticks closer, Gareth Southgate, at the helm of England’s national team, has already begun assembling his preliminary squad. This preparation has prompted contemplation among several Premier League talents regarding their international allegiances. Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento, facing prospects of exclusion from Southgate’s roster for the tournament in Germany, are reportedly mulling over the option to represent Scotland.

The final unveiling of Southgate’s 23-man squad is slated for March, just ahead of friendly encounters against football powerhouses Brazil and Belgium. Meanwhile, Gordon, Barnes, and Livramento, all eligible to don the Scottish jersey, find themselves under consideration by Scotland’s manager, Steve Clarke, for the impending championship. Adding to the potential Scottish contingent is Newcastle’s Elliott Anderson, bringing the total number of possible Scottish recruits from Newcastle to four.

John Carver, currently assisting Steve Clarke and previously serving as interim manager at Newcastle, shed light on these potential additions in a recent interview. Carver stressed the significance of players’ desires to contribute to their national teams’ journey while also urging younger talents to prioritize their developmental trajectories at Newcastle before making decisions regarding their international loyalties.

Though acknowledging that the ultimate choice rests with the players, Carver underscored the importance of players’ commitments to their current club affiliations. Among the trio, Gordon, fresh from clinching the under-21 European Championships with England, stands out as a potential late inclusion in Southgate’s squad. However, the stability of Southgate’s roster poses a formidable challenge for newcomers to secure a position come March, let alone for the Euro 2024 campaign in June.

Barnes, boasting one cap for England, has encountered setbacks due to injuries this season, potentially denting his prospects for international selection. Livramento, a product of Chelsea and Southampton’s youth systems, has been enjoying an uptick in playing time despite England’s surplus of talented full-backs.

Elliott Anderson, a promising 21-year-old midfielder, previously represented Scotland at youth levels but withdrew from the senior squad in September, expressing reservations about pledging his allegiance to Clarke’s side. Carver reiterated that the decision ultimately lies with the players, advising Anderson to concentrate on his role at Newcastle, recuperate from injuries, and deliberate on his international representation when he feels prepared.

Highlighting Steve Clarke’s inclusive philosophy, Carver emphasized the perpetual openness of the door for players capable of contributing to Scotland’s progression. He stressed the need for Anderson to be given space and time to mature and make informed decisions, assuring the young midfielder that he will find fulfillment regardless of the path he chooses.