Andrew Driver

By Jemma Tappenden
May 23 2009

Hearts winger Andrew Driver is set to get the call for England despite having previously expressed a wish to play for Scotland. The 21 year old has been named in England’s provisional squad for the Under-21 international against Azerbaijan on 8th June.

At present Driver in ineligible to play for Scotland because he was born in England and did not move to Scotland until he was 11 years old.  The Scottish FA has already made proposals to change this ruling to allow those who have had at least 5 years schooling in Scotland the chance to be eligible.  Northern Ireland, Wales and England are already indicating that they would be in agreement with such a ruling, but the proposal is yet to be submitted to Fifa’s International Board for approval.

But that hasn’t stopped Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce making moves to ensure the services of Driver before the ruling is passed.  Pearce will announce his final squad by the end of May, and it looks certain that Andrew Driver will be named within it.

Gordon Smith - SFA Chief Executive 

SFA Chief Executive Gordon Smith has already recognised that England have every right to name they young Hearts winger within their squad.  Smith commented that he would be disappointed if Driver was to choose England over Scotland, especially as he feels the youngster has an affinity to the country he was raised in, if not born there.   Driver himself has already expressed a wish to play for Scotland, having already scored against England when he featured for Scotland Schoolboys. 

Driver set for U21 call up

Discussion started by Three Lions (IP Logged), 23/05/2009 01:54

Three Lions
23/05/2009 01:54

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