Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has received his first senior England call-up following outstanding performances in the Premier League this season. The 22-year-old has been named in Thomas Tuchel's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania.
From Guernsey to Glory: The Island Mentality
Scott stands to become only the third Channel Islander to represent the England men's team, following in the footsteps of fellow Guernsey native Matt Le Tissier and Jersey's Graeme Le Saux. His stepsister, Maya Le Tissier, has already earned 10 caps for the England women's team and was part of their European Championship-winning squad.
The young midfielder attributes much of his success to what he calls the 'islander mentality'. 'For me, it just means we are fearless,' Scott explains. 'When we get an opportunity... because they're tough to come by back home, it's tough to get to the mainland. I feel like we take them when they come around.'
Overcoming Early Setbacks
Scott's journey to international recognition has been anything but straightforward. After being released by Southampton's academy and later walking away from Bournemouth's youth setup, his professional future looked uncertain. 'When I got released by Southampton, it was pretty upsetting,' he recalls. 'It felt like I'd committed four years of my life to this and for it to be blown away... it was heartbreaking.'
His salvation came through returning to Guernsey, where he played men's football for Guernsey FC in the eighth-tier Isthmian League at just 16 years old. His performances caught the attention of Bristol City, who offered him a scholarship in January 2020.
Rising Through the Ranks
Scott's career trajectory accelerated rapidly after joining Bristol City, where he initially earned the nickname 'Guernsey Grealish' for his adventurous playing style and resemblance to Jack Grealish. However, his £25 million move to Bournemouth in summer 2023 marked a transition to a more disciplined midfield role.
The midfielder has already tasted international success with England's youth teams, winning the European Under-19 Championship in 2022 and the Under-21 title this summer. His form at Bournemouth has now earned him the ultimate recognition - a place in the senior squad.
Scott's journey has been supported by his stepsister Maya, with whom he shares a close bond. 'We speak most days,' he says. 'I couldn't be prouder of her. She can help me out with advice. It's nice to have someone around who has experienced it and been around the Lionesses and England, in general.'
As he prepares for his potential senior debut, Scott remains focused on making the most of his opportunity, embodying the fearless attitude that has defined his remarkable journey from Channel Islands football to the brink of international recognition.
