14 September 2023 , 09:01
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Newcastle youngster Elliot Anderson is reportedly ready to turn his back on Scotland after not enjoying manager Steve Clarke's training sessions.
Anderson, 20, won his first senior Scotland call-up for the recent matches against Cyprus and England. The English-born midfielder had previously played for both England and Scotland at age-group level, but any hopes of a senior bow were postponed when he pulled out of Clarke's squad.
It was claimed at the time that Anderson's absence was due to injury. Now, though, it is being reported that there are other reasons for the move, with increasing noise about England attempting to convince the Magpies man to represent them rather than the country where his grandmother was born.
According to the Scottish Daily Express, Anderson 'didn't enjoy' his time with Scotland's national squad, prompting his return to Tyneside. The youngster is said to feel he had rushed in to his decision to join up with Clarke's group - a decision taken after talks with the international boss.
The same publication reports that Anderson will be available for Newcastle this weekend. Eddie Howe's side are due to host Brentford on Saturday, as they chase just a second league win of the season.
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Clarke was asked whether he had sought assurances from Anderson regarding his longer-term international future. "No. He just went home," was the manager's response.
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Elliot Anderson pulled out of Scotland's squad for the September internationals (Getty Images)
"It [Anderson's international future] is not something I can control," Clarke added. "There's not a lot I can do about it."
While Anderson may yet opt to represent England, his club colleague Harvey Barnes has been linked with a switch to Scotland. Barnes, who won one senior England cap in 2020, is eligible to make the change through his grandparents.
Kieran Trippier, an England international and a club colleague of both men, admitted he has held conversations with Tyneside-born Anderson. England boss Gareth Southgate, meanwhile, has described both Barnes and Anderson as "very good players".
“Elliot mentioned – well, I think it came out in the media first – that he is representing Scotland and at first, I said congrats," Trippier said. "But I was having chats. He’s a quality player, he’s got a great future ahead of him, of course.
“He’s been top quality for Newcastle. I wasn’t putting any pressure on him or anything – ultimately, it is his decision what he wants to do internationally and, of course, his family, who support him. At the moment, he chose Scotland and then he wasn’t here… and everything has happened.”