Opinion: Why Scotland Should Jump at the Chance to Cap Steven Caulker

Steven Caulker is keen to represent Scotland, according to national team assistant manager Steven Reid.

The Tartan Army number two faced the media this week ahead of his side’s Euro 2020 qualifying double header against Russia and San Marino.

Scotland have been hit with a number of injuries in the build-up to the games, with centre backs Liam Cooper and Grant Hanley both withdrawing from the squad.

It’s clear Scotland have issues at centre back, with no set partnership of note for Steve Clarke.

But maybe Caulker could help fix that? Per The Herald, Reid revealed Caulker phoned Scotland to tell them of his intention to represent the country if called upon.

Is that a good idea, though? Here’s why we think so:

His Experience

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There aren’t many players available to Scotland who can count Tottenham, Swansea, Cardiff, QPR, Southampton and Liverpool among his former clubs. He’s actually got an England cap too – but that came in a friendly so he’s free to switch nations.

It’s Happened Plenty of Times Before

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Among the current crop of Scotland stars, Liam Palmer, Scott McTominay and Oliver Burke were born and raised in England, but represent Scotland through family ties. Recent caps like Matt Phillips, Liam Cooper, Tom Cairney, Matt Ritchie and Oli McBurnie are the same. Capping Caulker would be no different to the rest.

He’s Got a Scottish Link

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We all remember Caulker’s short spell at Dundee and how well he did under Neil McCann. Sadly for the Dens side, he departed last year for another challenge. But Caulker’s time in Scotland should have shown plenty he’s a quality player and one who rates Scottish football too.

He Can Do This

And This

Most Significantly, He’s In Form

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Caulker currently turns out for Alanyaspor, who top the Turkish Super Lig after seven games. He’s played six of their seven league games – where they went unbeaten before losing against Besiktas at the weekend in a game Caulker started on the bench. If there’s a centre back playing at the top of one of Europe’s best leagues who is available for Scotland then he has to be called up.