Scotland have made a significant World Cup promise to Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes as they intensify efforts to secure his international allegiance ahead of England. The Scottish national team are pressing forward with their bid to land the talented attacker, who was born in England but qualifies through his grandparents, with the summer tournament in North America fast approaching.
International Tug-of-War Heats Up
According to reports from the Telegraph, Scotland have ramped up their pursuit of Barnes in recent weeks and are pushing for a definitive answer before March's international break. Manager Steve Clarke is understood to have promised the Newcastle star a spot in his World Cup squad if he commits to representing Scotland, creating a compelling proposition for the 27-year-old.
Barnes' Impressive Form and International Dilemma
Harvey Barnes has been in exceptional form for Newcastle this season, scoring 12 goals across all competitions with five of those coming in the prestigious Champions League. Despite this impressive return, the winger finds himself outside the current conversation for England selection, with significant depth in attacking positions creating a crowded pecking order under Thomas Tuchel.
The player has previously expressed his desire to represent England, the country of his birth, but sources suggest he has been taken aback by Scotland's determination to secure his services and is giving the switch serious consideration. Barnes' versatility and proven ability on big stages make him an attractive prospect for Clarke's squad planning.
Scotland's World Cup Ambitions
Scotland secured their World Cup place in dramatic fashion last November, scoring twice in the final minutes against Denmark at Hampden Park to book their ticket to North America. Their group stage opponents include Brazil in a blockbuster Miami clash, alongside Haiti and Morocco, with the expanded tournament format meaning even third-place finishers could progress to the knockout stages.
Clarke's side have arranged important preparation matches, including a friendly against Japan on March 28th and a World Cup warm-up against Curacao on May 30th. The manager is keen to finalise his squad options as soon as possible, with Barnes potentially featuring in the opening group game against Haiti on June 14th if he makes the switch and gains sufficient international experience beforehand.
What Barnes Would Bring to Scotland
The Newcastle attacker would provide Scotland with additional firepower and creative options in advanced positions, complementing established stars like Napoli's Scott McTominay. His Champions League experience and proven Premier League quality would significantly enhance Scotland's attacking threat as they prepare for their biggest tournament challenge in years.
While Barnes remains desperate to play international football at the highest level, the reality of England's depth in wide attacking positions means his pathway to regular Three Lions action appears limited. Scotland's direct approach and World Cup promise present an alternative route to major tournament football that the player is seriously weighing up as the March deadline approaches.
