SCOTLAND'S hopes of persuading Leeds United youngster Archie Gray to commit to the national side have taken a blow after England promoted him to their 'elite' squad.
The 17-year-old was previously named in England's under-19 squad, but has now moved up to what was previously known as the under-20s for matches against Italy and Germany.
Gray is still eligible for Scotland through his grandfather Frank, who pulled on the dark blue along with his great uncle Eddie, who were both Leeds United legends. His dad and former Leeds striker, Andy, also picked up two international caps under Berti Vogts.
His Leeds teammate Liam Cooper had spoken earlier this week about his attempts to persuade Gray to shun The Three Lions and instead commit to Scotland.
Cooper said: “I’m still trying to tap him up, don’t worry about that! I’ve been a bit of a secret agent. He knows I’ll always be there.
“He’s such a young boy and his family are steeped in Scottish and Leeds history.
“There is definitely a bit of sentiment there but he’s flying at the minute with England. He’s captain of the Under-18s, which is a bit of a stinker for us.
“But I’ll keep nipping away and hopefully I can break him down.”
