Steve Clarke has revealed he will check Harvey Barnes' commitment to Scotland before considering the Newcastle winger for a potential World Cup berth. The Scotland manager wants to ensure the 26-year-old, who has one England cap, is sufficiently keen to switch international allegiance ahead of March's friendlies.
Barnes’ international future has been brought back into focus by Scotland’s return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence. The Scottish FA has previously believed Barnes still harbours hopes of playing for England again, but the player left the door open to a switch in a recent interview.
“They have to be committed, they have to want to play for Scotland,” Clarke said on Monday. “It is 26 [in a squad] again so there are some spaces there, but not too many.” Clarke denied that introducing a player such as Barnes could disrupt team harmony, adding that footballers are “quite selfish” and welcome additions who can help the team improve.
Clarke also raised the possibility of staying on as Scotland manager beyond the World Cup. The 62-year-old’s contract ends when the team exit the tournament, but he is open to an extension. He will hold talks with the Scottish FA early next year to discuss long-term plans.
“I’ve got a few questions for them in terms of how we move forward and how we make sure it’s not over 20 years before we qualify for another World Cup,” Clarke said. “This group of players can definitely do 2028. Not all of them, but most of them.”
