Scotland star quits camp with international future in air amid England option
Newcastle midfielder Elliot Anderson has thrown fresh doubt on his international future by withdrawing from Scotland's squad for games with Cyprus and England.
Steve Clarke's side are in prime position to qualify for Euro 2024, having taken 12 points from 12 in Group A so far. And their clash at the AEK Arena on Friday night represents an opportunity to take themselves to the brink of making it to Germany.
That'll be followed by a clash at Hampden Park with England next Tuesday, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Scottish FA. But they'll have to now cope with the loss of Anderson, who has reportedly left the camp after picking up an injury in training.
Anderson will now return to Newcastle for treatment with his Scotland future still very much in the air. The uncapped 20-year-old, born in Whitley Bay, has represented them at Under 16, 17, 18, and 21 level, but also played for England Under-19s after briefly switching his allegiance.
Former Chelsea player Clarke has made no secret of his desire to persuade Anderson to represent Scotland, with the player initially set to be capped over the next seven days. And with Newcastle on the big European stage this season in the Champions League, Anderson could soon have the ideal platform to impress England boss Gareth Southgate.
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Anderson has been at St James' Park since the age of eight and signed his first professional deal in 2019. But he managed just two senior appearances before joining Bristol Rovers on loan in January 2022.
He then excelled under Joey Barton though, scoring eight times in 21 appearances. And he helped the club to a dramatic final day promotion, returning to League One at the first time of asking.
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He duly received a new contract upon his return to Newcastle, and made 22 appearances amid their fourth placed Premier League finish in 2022/23. And the youngster was a late substitute at Wembley in their EFL League Cup final defeat to Man United.
Anderson also has three games under his belt for Eddie Howe's side this season. And his club manager will be relieved that the player has opted against trying to aggravate his issue further by flying to Cyprus.
Following the international break, the Toon Army host Brentford on Saturday, September 16. And Anderson and co will be looking to halt a slide of three straight defeats following Saturday's 3-1 loss at Brighton.
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