I’m a former Scotland youth star but I supported England at Euro 2024

IT’s the oldest rivalry in football.

The hatred many Scotland fans have for England is unparalleled to any other nation.

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But there are some who have a foot in both camps.

From Scott McTominay, Angus Gunn and Che Adams to Tommy Conway and Liam Cooper – there are several English-born stars who have chosen to represent their rivals north of the border instead.

But it’s not just in the senior team – there are many examples throughout the youth sides.

And former Aberdeen loan striker Fraser Hornby was in that very same boat.

Born in Northampton, the towering striker opted to represent his dad’s country of birth from an early age and starred for Scotland at under-17, under-19 and under-21 levels.

He even went on to become the record goalscorer for the under-21s with ten goals from 18 appearances.

But Hornby, now 24, has never been called upon by Steve Clarke and doesn’t seem to be anywhere near his plans.

The forward is still dreaming of becoming a full international one day though – despite not knowing who to support if Scotland meet England in an Auld Enemy clash.

Quizzed on his allegiances and who he would support in the famous fixture, Hornby told German outlet Echo: “I hear that question a lot. I come from a family that is half English, half Scottish.

“I have supported both teams. I have played in Scotland’s youth national teams. And I was born and raised in England.

“It gets complicated when the two play against each other. Then I sit back and don’t dare to make a prediction!”

Hornby, who was a product of Everton‘s youth academy, has been around the block already in his career having enjoyed stints in Belgium, France and Scotland with the Dons.

He’s now in Germany after signing with Darmstadt 98 last summer, and he watched on as millions flocked to the country for the Euros – including both Scotland and England supporters.

But while his football allegiances as a player lie with the Tartan Army, Hornby went to just one game during the tournament – and it was to support their rivals.

He said: “I went to the England vs Denmark game in Frankfurt with some friends. It was the first time I saw an England national team game live in the stadium.

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“It wasn’t the best game, but it was a nice experience.”

He might struggle to pick a favourite when he’s put on the spot over both national teams.

But when it comes to either fan base, there is only one winner.

And the national anthems are no different too.

Hornby continued: “The Scottish fans are certainly one of the best groups of fans in the world. Every time the national anthem is played, I get goosebumps.

“Even my teammates here in Darmstadt would send me messages every time the Scottish anthem was played, saying how great they thought it was.

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“he Scots are known for being really proud to be Scottish. Like my father. So it was no surprise to see so many Scottish fans in Germany during the Euros. 

It’s been four years since Hornby last featured for the under-21 team.

But he still keeps in touch with some of the old pals he met along the way – including Billy Gilmour.

“I’m still in touch with some of them,” he added.

“For example, Billy Gilmour, who I shared a room with for two years. He’s now in the national team and is doing really well in the Premier League. It’s nice to see.”

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