Danny Ings is hoping to take his chance on Tuesday as England Under-21s prepare to face San Marino.
The Burnley striker is in line to make his full debut for the Three Lions in Shrewsbury as Gareth Southgate’s side look to extend their lead at the top of their Euro qualifying group.
And with fellow forward Saido Berahino suspended for this game, Ings could be the player to step into his boots.
He told TheFA.com: “Fingers crossed. I’ve worked hard this week and hopefully I can just get some more minutes under my belt and try to do well.
“The lads are looking sharp as always and the training’s been fantastic.
“There’s been some nice goals in training and hopefully we can take that into the game.”
England v San Marino
6pm, Tue 19 November
Greenhaus Meadow
Live on BT Sport
Ironically, Ings’ first taste of life with the Under-21 squad came in last month’s trip to face San Marino in Serravalle, where he came on as a second-half substitute to get his first cap.
The 21-year-old admits he has settled quickly into the group, with a strong squad spirit really being formed under Southgate and his staff.
And with bottom-placed San Marino next up, the Championship top scorer believes that togetherness will help them to collect the three points in front of a sell out crowd on Tuesday.
“We’ve got a great group here and we all get on with each other and know each other’s games,” he added.
“There’s some unbelievable talent in training and we want to take that into the game.
“It’s going to be a tough one, as they will sit in and try to make it hard, but I’m sure we will come out on top if we can do the right things.”
Watch the full interview with Ings in the video player above.
