Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes may now face a big decision ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The final international break of 2025 is coming to an end, and Newcastle United players have been in action around the world.
Nick Woltemade enjoyed a fine break with Germany, scoring three times in two games.
Newcastle will hope to see Woltemade take that form into this weekend’s clash with Manchester City, but one Magpies player may now face an interesting international decision.
Newcastle United’s Harvey Barnes on playing for Scotland
Harvey Barnes is primed to start against City after scoring against Brentford before the international break.
The Magpies winger hasn’t been a regular starter since joining Newcastle in 2023, but he now has a chance to shine.
Barnes may also need to think about his international future after Scotland qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
Scotland beat Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday night to book their place at the World Cup, which brings Barnes into the picture.
Burnley-born Barnes has picked up one England cap, but qualifies for Scotland through his grandparents.
Barnes considered playing for Scotland in 2023, and the interest from Steve Clarke’s side continued into 2024.
Scotland also wanted Tino Livramento in the past, only to see the Magpies defender commit his future to England.
Livramento is in England contention for the World Cup and has shown no interest in representing Scotland so far.
Scotland have so far failed to secure Barnes, but qualifying for the World Cup may make the switch all the more appealing.
Speaking to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Barnes has refused to close the door on Scotland.
Barnes suggested that he hasn’t put much thought into playing for Scotland, but he enjoyed watching their win over Denmark.
Barnes added that a switch is not closed off, but there has been no progress on playing for Scotland.
“It’s not something I’ve really spoken about or put thought into recently. There’s always been talk about it, and a while ago there was bits and bobs about it. But recently it’s not cropped up,” said Barnes.
“It was great to see them win and get through last night, it was a crazy game, and I’m sure everyone in Scotland enjoyed themselves.
“Is it closed off? No, of course it’s not. I’ve obviously played for England, and I know the eligibility side of it is still there, so it’s hard to say either way, but there’s been no real chats or progression in that sense,” he added.
Harvey Barnes should seriously consider Scotland switch
Many Scotland fans will be dubious about the idea of Barnes switching his international allegiance.
Barnes hasn’t exactly pushed to play for Scotland, and only making the switch after they have qualified for the World Cup may look a little opportunistic.
Yet if Scotland do come calling, Barnes would be foolish to say no.
Barnes would almost certainly play a major role for Scotland if he accepted a call-up, as Steve Clarke has a lack of quality wingers at his disposal.
This would mean saying goodbye to Barnes’ England dreams, but his chances of playing for the Three Lions appear to have gone anyway.
Barnes should certainly listen to Clarke’s pitch if Scotland want him, and potentially put himself in line for World Cup action.
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