Elliot Anderson’s poor fortune could be Gareth Southgate’s good fortune as the 20-year-old Scot pulled out of international duty meaning he is still eligible for England.
Don’t get me wrong, I know I’m reaching here but as an Englishman I’d love to see Elliot Anderson choose the Three Lions over the Tartan Army.
The fact remains, though, that because Elliot Anderson will now not make his full international debut this month after pulling out through injury, it gives Gareth Southgate more time to decide whether he wants to convince the Whitley Bay lad to join his crusade over Steve Clarke’s.
Anderson’s withdrawal leaves him eligible for England
Given that Anderson has already accepted the call-up to Scotland probably hints where his allegiance now lies, but until he steps onto the pitch in a Scotland shirt for the senior side he can still change his mind.
It was only in March when there was serious consideration from Southgate’s side that bringing Anderson into the England fold would be a good move.
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Although English by birth, Anderson has a connection to Scotland via his grandparents which makes him eligible to play for the Tartan Army.
Southgate is unlikely to call up Anderson despite being available
In fact growing up, Anderson has represented both countries at various stages of his international career.
As it’s only when a player commits to a country at the senior level do they become locked in playing for that country, and while Anderson was selected this month, his injury means he will have to wait a little bit longer to end the speculation over his international future.
It is, admittedly, highly unlikely Anderson would get a call-up from Southgate now, especially his name isn’t Kalvin Phillips or Harry Maguire which seems to be the main criteria for England selection.