Steve Clarke has launched a renewed bid to persuade Newcastle United's Harvey Barnes to represent Scotland at this summer's World Cup.
The Scotland manager has been pursuing the winger for an extended period, but efforts have intensified over recent weeks as the coach seeks a definitive answer ahead of the March international break.
Despite previously expressing his desire to play for England, the country of his birth, Barnes is now reportedly receptive to switching allegiances.
Sources from Scotland indicate the 28-year-old is giving the proposal serious consideration and expects to decide in the coming days, according to The Telegraph.
Clarke's persistence has clearly made an impression, with Barnes reportedly feeling valued by the manager's unwavering interest.
The Newcastle winger would represent a significant boost to Scotland's attacking options should he agree to the switch.
Barnes has enjoyed an outstanding campaign at St James' Park, netting 12 times this season with five of those strikes coming in the Champions League.
His preferred position is on the left flank, where he likes to drift infield onto his stronger right foot, although he possesses the versatility to operate on the right or even through the middle.
Steve Clarke has launched a renewed bid to persuade Newcastle United's Harvey Barnes to represent Scotland
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Eddie Howe has deployed him as a central striker within a fluid forward line at Newcastle.
Clarke views Barnes as a potent offensive weapon who would considerably strengthen what has been described as an otherwise uninspiring Scottish attack.
Barnes earned his sole England cap in a friendly against Wales back in 2020, but has found himself far down the pecking order of wingers available to Thomas Tuchel.
The fierce competition for places in the England squad means the German coach has not included Barnes in his plans, despite the winger's prolific form at club level.
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Harvey Barnes is now reportedly receptive to switching allegiances
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Having always considered himself English, Barnes held out hope for another Three Lions call-up for as long as possible.
However, he recognises this may be his best opportunity to play in a major tournament.
Scotland secured their place at the World Cup for the first time since 1998 following a dramatic victory over Denmark in their final qualifying match at Hampden Park last November.
The Tartan Army are currently riding high, with many considering this their strongest squad in a generation.
The World Cup is the biggest competition in international football | PAClarke's side have a friendly scheduled against Japan on March 28, followed by a World Cup warm-up match against Curaçao on May 30, providing potential opportunities for Barnes to integrate with his new teammates.
Should Barnes commit to Scotland before the tournament begins, he would stand an excellent chance of featuring in the starting lineup when they face Haiti in their opening group fixture on June 14.
The Scots remain in the same city for their second match against Morocco on June 19.
For their final group fixture, they will travel south to Miami for a showdown with Brazil on June 24.
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