Scotland's hopes of securing Tino Livramento's services have taken a significant hit as the young defender has been named in the latest England national team squad.
Livramento, alongside Noni Madueke, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Angel Gomes, has received his first senior call-up, raising concerns for the Tartan Army eager to see him represent their nation.
The announcement comes as interim manager Lee Carsley, stepping up from his role with the England Under-21s after Gareth Southgate's resignation earlier this summer, prepares for the Nations League double-header against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
His squad notably excludes experienced vice-captain Kyle Walker, who played a key role during the Euro 2024 final against Spain.
Carsley’s selection marks a shift towards youth, with uncapped talents like Madueke, Gibbs-White, Livramento, and Gomes earning their spots, while established players such as Harry Maguire and Jack Grealish make their return after being omitted from the final Euro 2024 squad.
Injuries have sidelined Jude Bellingham and Luke Shaw, plus Kieran Trippier's recent retirement further reshapes the squad.
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“I think it is a real proud moment obviously for my family and myself,” Carsley said.
“It has been a really hectic couple of weeks getting my head around the magnitude of the job, getting around to see as many matches as I can.
“I think it is fair to say the job that Gareth and Steve (Holland) did and the position I am picking the squad up is totally different to when they picked it up.
“I understand I am in a really privileged position and I am excited to meet up with the players.
“I thought it was important we put some fresh faces in and put our mark on the squad.”
Scotland assistant John Carver dubbed Livramento "outstanding" last November and hoped that the Newcastle United full-back would opt to represent the country his mother was born in.
Carsley coached Livramento as an Under-21s team player and that factor could have been key.
Addressing the selection dilemma last year, the former Southampton starlet said: “There’s no rush to make any decision. I’m really happy with where I am now.
“I’m really happy with the group I’m involved in, with the coach and everything.
“I’m just enjoying getting back to playing consistently and training consistently. I’m still young, still got a while to choose and I’m very happy with where I am now.
“I’ve not seen anything (about being called up for Scotland) and I’m sure if it was something serious my agent would’ve let me know.”
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