England want the Englishman with a Scottish grandmother who plays in England but was called up by Scotland

If that headline seems too confusing, then you have Mozzart Sport Kenya's sincere apology. It could have been simpler, but we were keen to emphasise the curious international career of Elliot Anderson.

England national team head coach Gareth Southgate would love to add Newcastle United's young midfielder Anderson to his squad - despite the player previously committing to neighbouring Scotland.

The 20-year-old Newcastle boy played for Scotland at various youth categories, although he had made one appearance for England U19. Anderson received his first senior call-up for the Scotland national team for a Euro 2024 qualifier against Cyprus and a prestigious friendly against England. However, he had to withdraw from the squad due to injury. Anderson, born in England but with Scottish heritage through his grandmother, remains eligible to represent either nation.

Southgate acknowledged that the English Football Association is monitoring the midfielder's progress closely.

"We liked him and we do like him, we think he's a player doing really well. He was called into Scotland's squad earlier in the week, and I don't know what the position is at the moment. I saw he's pulled out. Let's see, that's something that our technical director, John McDermott and others at our organisation will pick up. He's definitely a player we like."

Steve Clarke, Southgate's Scottish counterpart, admitted that he had no control over such decisions and acknowledged the potential challenge of retaining Anderson for Scotland - so he'll have to wait and see if the youngster would stand by his decision to play for the county his paternal grandmother was born.

Anderson has made three sub appearances for the Magpies in the Premier League this season and was praised for his eye-catching progress in terms of physical condition over the past three months. Newcastle coach Eddie Howe sees the young man as a future star for the black-and-whites.

However, one player Southgate won't be able to get is Brighton's teen sensation Evan Ferguson. The 18-year-old remains loyal to the Republic of Ireland. He requires just one more competitive cap for Ireland before becoming ineligible to play for England under FIFA rules. Although Ferguson withdrew from the recent Republic of Ireland squad, suggesting potential interest from England, Southgate says it won't happen.

"Evan's made it clear he feels he was born in Ireland, and he's represented them. He's a bloody good player. We have to respect him. I don't think he's given any clue that would be different. At the same time, we were looking at the English-born Erling Haaland, wishing he might also be available! But we've got a pretty good striker already and we're very happy with him."