McCarthy keen to take England chance

The 28-year-old was rewarded with his third call-up for the Three Lions after some superb form in the Premier League.

McCarthy has picked up where he left off during the 2017/18 season, where a string of impressive performances and match-defining saves helped the club to survive and drew plaudits from afar.

And following a successful World Cup, Gareth Southgate’s squad now has plenty of competition, with Jordan Pickford, Jack Butland and Marcus Bettinelli joining him.

“I've been called up for a reason and there's now four of us here, but it's a time for me to go out there and prove what I can do,” McCarthy said.

“We're away for seven or eight days, so it's enough time to sort of show him what I can do. And at the end of the day, I want to give him a decision to make. Obviously it's an unbelievable feeling to be back here.

“I've been in two squads before but that was quite a while ago, so obviously after the World Cup and everything that has gone on it's been a positive for English football. It's nice to be back involved and a part of it."

He added: “We have had a positive start to the season (at Southampton) and to get the call-up was the cherry on the top.

“Obviously it will be a very proud moment for me and my family. When you are growing up as a kid, all you want to do is play football and represent your country.

"If I do get my chance, I know I will take it. I will be overwhelmed.”