Overview
- The Telegraph reports Steve Clarke has renewed his bid to recruit the Newcastle winger for Scotland ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
- Barnes is eligible to switch through Scottish grandparents, having only one senior England appearance in a friendly in 2020.
- Multiple outlets say Barnes is receptive to the approach, with a decision expected in the coming days.
- Reports indicate Clarke has promised a World Cup squad place if he commits, as Scotland align plans for the March window and summer preparations.
- Barnes has 12 goals this season, including five in the Champions League, yet remains outside Thomas Tuchel’s England selections, while Ally McCoist publicly urged him to choose Scotland.