Newcastle United star Harvey Barnes has sparked fresh speculation about his international future by admitting a switch from England to Scotland remains a possibility.
The International Dilemma
The 27-year-old winger, who earned his only England cap in October 2020 with a 14-minute appearance against Wales, qualifies for Scotland through his grandparents under FIFA eligibility rules. Despite representing England throughout youth levels, Barnes has found opportunities limited with Gareth Southgate's senior squad since his brief debut five years ago.
Barnes addressed the ongoing speculation following Scotland's dramatic qualification for next summer's World Cup in America, Canada and Mexico. "No, no, of course it's not off the table," Barnes told Sky Sports. "I've obviously played for England and I know the eligibility side's still there."
Previous Talks and Current Situation
Scotland manager Steve Clarke confirmed previous contact with the Newcastle attacker, though those discussions apparently reached an impasse. "I am not going to say I haven't spoken to Harvey, because I have. But that was a long time ago," Clarke stated in 2023. "I haven't heard from him since. The next phone call won't be from me."
Barnes acknowledged that a potential switch hasn't been at the forefront of his mind recently. "It's hard to say either way but there's been no real chats or any sort of progression in that sense," he explained, describing the situation as something that's "not something that's been on my mind."
Scotland's Wing Dilemma and Barnes' Form
The timing of this renewed speculation coincides with both Scotland's World Cup qualification and potential concerns about their wing options. Bournemouth's Ben Gannon-Doak, who provided the assist for Scott McTominay's spectacular overhead kick against Denmark, recently went off injured at Hampden.
Meanwhile, Barnes has been delivering consistent performances for Eddie Howe's Newcastle since his move from Leicester in 2023. This season alone, the attacker has contributed four goals and two assists, demonstrating the kind of form that could make him an appealing proposition for Clarke's World Cup squad.
The situation mirrors that of Elliot Anderson, who was also linked with Scotland before ultimately committing to England. With the global tournament approaching, Barnes' international allegiance decision could become increasingly significant for both nations.
