After playing four years in the Championship with Crystal Palace, Nathaniel Clyne was touted as a talented back with offensive potential.
Now in his third Premier League season with Southampton, Clyne is challenging for a starting role with the England national team.
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Still only 23-years-old and with over six years of professional experience in England’s top flights, Clyne could be set to make his first appearance for the Three Lions as they take on Slovenia and Scotland during the upcoming international break.
Clyne got his first-ever call-up from Roy Hodgson earlier this month, but did not feature in any matches for England.
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But with his recent run of play and Southampton’s stellar defensive record, Clyne could challenge John Stones on England’s back line.
Through ten matches of Premier League play, Southampton have only conceded five goals, half as many as any other team. They have also outscored their opponents 15-1 at home, making St. Mary’s a feared destination for traveling teams.
England manager Roy Hodgson was at the KC Stadium to watch Clyne, who put in a strong performance in Saints 1-0 win over Hull City. After the match, the right-back said he is ready to represent his country.
[ RELATED: Latest Premier League standings ]Hopefully I’ve done enough to get a call-up. I feel fit, I feel strong, I’m getting a lot of game time and I’m enjoying it.
It’s always good to play for your country. If you play well then you get picked up. Last time I did. Hopefully I can get called up again and receive my first cap.”
If Clyne were to get a call-up, the 23-year-old would be one of the older defenders on England’s squad, joining a group of talented youth including Luke Shaw (19), Calum Chambers (19) and John Stones (20).