Danny Ings calls on Burnley fans to back England Under-21s

The Clarets striker is hoping to be in Gareth Southgate’s squad against fellow Euro Finalists Portugal, when the head coach names his squad later this week.

And with Under-21s squad-mates Nathaniel Chalobah and Michael Keane also plying their trade on loan at Burnley this season, Ings is relishing the prospect of representing his country on home turf.

"To be a part of this [game] at Burnley would be really big for me," he said. 

"I know I’ve got a lot of friends in the area who will come and watch the game, so hopefully I’ll be able to get involved and play a part.

"And hopefully most of the town will be able to get to the game and it will be great if me, Nat and Keano will be able to play a part in it."

Ings is also hoping his first Premier League goal can help kick-start a run of form to keep him in contention for the Three Lions front line.

The 22-year-old had endured a frustrating start to the season as Sean Dyche’s side found their feet in the top flight after last season’s promotion from the Championship.

A hamstring injury kept him sidelined for most of September and October and also saw him miss out on the Euro play-off win against Croatia for the Under-21s.

But Ings scored his first goal of the season on his return to the team against Everton and is now hoping to build on that milestone.

"I’m just glad to be off the mark now and hopefully that will set me running now to score more goals for the team," added Ings.

Danny Ings celebrates his first Premier League goal with Burnley

"I knew this season was going to be exciting, but at the same time a little more frustrating than the Championship.

"You get a lot more chances in the Championship and more quality chances, but in the Premier League those opportunities are much harder to come by and it’s important that you take them.

"I’ve learned that at the start of the season."

Southgate names his squad for the game on Thursday and Ings will be hoping he can be among the strikers selected, after seeing the likes of Saido Berahino and Harry Kane find their goalscoring touch in the last few weeks.

Berahino in particular has been in red-hot form to top the goalscoring charts, prompting talk of a potential call-up to Roy Hodgson’s senior squad.

"Saido and Harry have been unbelievable for their clubs and that form takes you into your country as well," added Ings.

"If you’re scoring goals every week at club level, then it definitely opens doors.

"After playing with Saido, it gives me great hope that if I can follow that form for my club then I might be able to do similar as well."

Tickets for the game at Turf Moor cost just £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. Call 01282 700003 for more details.

Click here to apply for group bookings for 15 people or more (no age restrictions and bookable in advance only): £5 adults and £2.50 concessions.

And Charter Standard clubs clubs can apply for group bookings via the attached form here.