Harvey Barnes has kept open the possibility of switching international allegiance from England to Scotland, saying he would not dismiss the idea despite having been capped once by the Three Lions.
The Newcastle United winger, 27, remains eligible for Scotland through his grandparents, despite making a brief senior appearance for England in October 2020.
Under FIFA rules, his 14-minute cameo against Wales does not prevent him from representing another nation, and Scottish supporters have long speculated about a potential move north.
Conversations between Barnes and Scotland manager Steve Clarke previously took place but ultimately stalled.
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In 2023, Clarke acknowledged that contact had been made, explaining: “I am 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.”
Barnes featured prominently for England at youth level but has struggled to remain in contention for Thomas Tuchel's senior squad.
England's record in their last five major tournaments | PA/GETTY
Harvey Barnes has kept open the possibility of switching international allegiance from England to Scotland, saying he would not dismiss the idea despite having been capped once by the Three Lions
|PA
Speaking to Sky Sports following Scotland’s dramatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, he revealed that while a switch has not been a priority, neither is it something he would rule out.
“No, no, of course it’s not [off the table],” he said.
“I’ve obviously played for England and I know the eligibility side’s still there.
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Harvey Barnes has long been a consistent performer for Newcastle
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“So, it’s hard to say either way but there’s been no real chats or any sort of progression in that sense.”
The winger’s potential availability may prove timely for Scotland.
Clarke’s side sealed their first World Cup appearance since 1998 with a stunning 4-2 victory over Denmark, but depth in wide attacking areas remains a concern.
Bournemouth’s Ben Gannon-Doak, who assisted Scott McTominay’s spectacular overhead kick in the same match, was forced off injured at Hampden, underlining the need for options.
Barnes, who joined Newcastle from Leicester City in 2023, has been a consistent performer at club level and remains a key part of Eddie Howe’s squad.
He has registered four goals and two assists so far this season, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable Premier League attacker.
Harvey Barnes' sole appearance for England came during a showdown with Wales back in October 2020
|GETTY
While no formal movement has taken place, the door appears to remain ajar.
Barnes may yet be tempted by a chance to play on the biggest stage with a Scotland side on the rise, even if he insists the decision is not currently occupying his thoughts.
For now, however, his future lies somewhere between Wembley and Hampden.
Barnes is expected to feature when Newcastle lock horns with Manchester City in a crunch Premier League clash on Saturday night (5.30pm).