For the longest time, Harvey Barnes’ international path looked straightforward: England caps at youth level, a senior debut in 2020, and everything seemingly set for a Three Lions career.
But life has a way of leaving doors slightly ajar, and Barnes isn’t pretending that the one leading to Scotland is fully shut.
England Beginnings… But Limited Chances
Barnes is now 27, and while he was once a regular name in England’s youth squads, his experience with the senior setup has barely stretched beyond a 14-minute appearance against Wales five years ago.
Since then, competition on the wings has only intensified, and he’s found himself slipping out of the conversation.
Why Scotland Is Even on the Table
What makes this story particularly interesting is Barnes’ eligibility.
Thanks to his Scottish grandparents, he can still represent Steve Clarke’s team under FIFA rules.
It’s a possibility that has hovered around him for years, even though earlier talks between him and Clarke seemed to fizzle out before anything meaningful began.
A Conversation That Went Nowhere
Clarke himself once acknowledged those stalled discussions, saying back in 2023:
“I’m not going to say I haven’t spoken to Harvey, because I have. But that was a long time ago.
I haven’t heard from him since. The next phone call won’t be from me.”
That comment seemed to mark the end of the topic… until now.
Scotland’s World Cup Boost Brings the Question Back
With Scotland booking their place at next summer’s World Cup in dramatic fashion on Tuesday, attention naturally swung back to players who could strengthen the squad.
And suddenly, Barnes found himself being asked again about where his international heart could lie.
Barnes Leaves the Door Slightly Open
Speaking to Sky Sports, Barnes insisted a switch is not something he’s actively planning — but he didn’t dismiss it either.
“No, no, of course it’s not off the table,” he said.
“I’ve obviously played for England and I know the eligibility side is still there. It’s hard to say either way, but there’s been no real chats or any sort of progression in that sense.”
Comparisons to Elliot Anderson’s Saga
This isn’t the first time Barnes’ name has been linked with Scotland.
The rumours began bubbling around the same time as Elliot Anderson’s international tug-of-war.
Anderson, who played for Scotland at youth level and was even called up to the senior squad, ultimately chose England. Barnes’ situation mirrors that back-and-forth — just with more silence.
Why Scotland Might Look His Way
With next summer’s tournament stretching across America, Canada and Mexico, Scotland could use every bit of attacking quality they can get.
Their winger options aren’t overflowing, which puts Barnes’ profile firmly in the “tempting” category.
Injuries Adding to Scotland’s Concerns
Ben Gannon-Doak, Bournemouth’s young forward, has been a bright spark — even setting up Scott McTominay’s acrobatic overhead goal against Denmark — but he was forced off with an injury at Hampden.
That only heightens the need for depth.
Barnes’ Club Form Keeps Him in the Spotlight
Back at Newcastle, Barnes has been quietly effective.
Four goals and two assists this season, plus steady performances since his move from Leicester in 2023, make him exactly the kind of player who could help Scotland on the biggest stage… if he decides that’s his path.
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