Leeds United: Archie Gray makes Scotland admission in new international football verdict
Leeds United gem Archie Gray has admitted he isn’t interested in playing for Scotland, with the teenager’s focus remaining on playing for England.
The versatile midfielder has been a regular for the Whites under Daniel Farke at Elland Road this season, impressing in a variety of positions and even winning the praise of Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate.
Reports have suggested that Scotland have made calls to try and temp Gray north of the border [TEAMtalk, 11 March], but the 18-year-old has revealed his family are happy to see him represent the Three Lions.
As quoted by Football Scotland (18 April) he said: “My hopes are to play for England, definitely. It’s where I’m from and where I’ve grown up. I’m three-quarters English, so that’s where I’m at.
“My dad is totally happy for whatever makes me happy, even though Eddie supports Scotland. But I’m the same as him, I’m happy as long as he’s happy.
“Hopefully I can (get England recognition), but I’ve just got to take it step by step and keep focusing on my club football, which can hopefully attract the attention of whoever it is, whether it’s the Under-21s or it’s the first team. I’d be really happy just to play for my country.”
Leeds United gem Archie Gray snubs Scotland calls in new England boost ahead of Euro 2024
Gray has enjoyed an excellent breakthrough season at Leeds United and it is not a surprise to see international teams fighting over the teenager’s allegiance ahead of a big summer of international football.
While it is unlikely that the teenager will feature at this summer’s European Championships, for either England or Scotland, he is quite clearly a player that Southgate is keeping a close eye on for the future.
If he isn’t picked by the Three Lions senior squad sooner rather than later, he may reconsider his choice to snub Steve Clarke’s side. However, it feels like an almost certainty that we will see Gray lining up for the national side.
Hopefully, Leeds will be able to keep their academy gem at Elland Road beyond the end of the summer transfer window as it feels as though interest is only going to grow in securing the teenager’s signature.
In other Leeds United news, Russell Martin has admitted that one Southampton star will miss the final-day clash at Elland Road
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