Scotland Under-21 manager Scot Gemmill has admitted that his country are trying to convince Leeds United wonderkid Archie Gray to choose Scotland over England – even speaking to his Dad.
Gray, 17, has been sensational for Leeds since breaking into the side under Daniel Farke this term – and has worked his way into the England Elite Squad for the November break. Basically, England’s U20 side.
It comes after playing three times for the 19’s in the previous break. Gray’s progression this season has been remarkable. But his family have heritage with Scotland, his Father winning two caps for Scotland.
Grandfather Frank Gray played 32 times, and Elland Road icon Eddie – his great uncle – played 12 times for Scotland. Archie, born in Durham, has the choice of both. So far, it seems he is choosing England.
Earlier this week, Liam Cooper – born in England, but playing for Scotland – said he was trying to tempt Gray to choose the latter. Gemmill told the Herald he is even speaking to the Leeds star’s Dad, Andy.
“His father was an ex-teammate of mine at Nottingham Forest and bumped into him recently at a game. So I obviously spoke to him. He explained his son’s situation to me. Of course he is a really good player.
“To my knowledge, he has come through the England pathway. His dad knows there is an interest from us. It’s one of these situations and we have to respect whatever decision he makes,” Gemmill said.
Scot Gemmill trying to convince Leeds star to choose Scotland
Gray is good enough to become an England player in the future and if he wants to play for England, he should be allowed to do so. Maybe, he will feel he wants to follow in his family’s footsteps with Scotland.
But as things stand, Gray is playing for England and given he has gone from England’s U17 side to U19’s, to the Elite Squad in the matter of months – you would expect Gray is happy, and will continue as he is.
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