Only Mbappe, Kane, Gordon, Osimhen and Haaland have scored more than Harvey Barnes in the Champions League this season. Barnes’ strike against PSV took his UCL tally to 5 for the season. In great form: 5th goal in 5 games all comps, following doubles against Leeds United in the Premier League and Bournemouth in the FA Cup. 12 goals since Oct 1.
BBC Radio Scotland this morning discussed his vibrant form and whether Barnes might receive – or answer – a call from Scotland. He's played once for England, 15 minutes against Wales at Wembley in 2020, but he's not cap-tied as that was a friendly and Fifa eligibility rules were loosened further in 2020. Born in Burnley, the 28-year-old qualifies for Scotland via his maternal grandparents under Fifa ancestry rules.
Back in November, Barnes didn’t rule out the idea when asked by Sky Sports. “No, of course it’s not,” when asked if the door to Scotland was closed. Steve Clarke subsequently suggested there might be talks in the New Year. No indication either way so far. But could Barnes’ possible arrival affect team harmony amongst those who did so brilliantly in qualifying? Probably not because Scotland are crying out for an attacker of Barnes’ calibre and because he’s such a personable individual.
He’d need to make a strong statement about his desire to represent the land of his maternal grandparents, not simply appear to be looking around because the door to the England dressing-room seems closed. Would Barnes get in England’s squad? Probably not, even with this form. He’s best position is left wing, cutting on to his right foot, and can also can play at centre-forward. England have strength in depth, especially wide.
Tuchel has Gordon and Rashford as his main left-flank options and could even seek to accommodate Rogers and Bellingham with Rogers off the left. Tuchel has Saka, Madueke and Bowen on the right. Foden, Palmer and Eze can play wide as well as 10. At centre-forward, he has the peerless Kane, also Watkins, possibly Delap, Calvert-Lewin and Solanke. If Barnes' form continues, and injuries intervene elsewhere, there will doubtless be more talk about Barnes and England.
He wouldn't start in the World Cup for England but he would for Scotland. He's shared a pitch with the Scots before. He played against Scotland at the 2017 Toulon Tournament (Under-20), scoring twice to knock them out in the semis. Barnes also played alongside Foden in an Under-21 Euros qualifying win over Billy Gilmour and co at Tynecastle in 2018.
Harvey Barnes is a big talent, in form, enjoying a run free from injuries, and the focus on him and who he represents is understandable. #ENG #SCO #NUFC