Southgate looking forward to Turf Moor return with U21s

The Three Lions head coach has been something of a familiar face at the Lancashire venue over the last year or so, with Burnley striker Danny Ings being a regular in his squad.

And with two more of his squad in Nathaniel Chalobah and Michael Keane also joining the Clarets on loan this season, he’s already been back to Lancashire this term.

"I’m looking forward to seeing us play at Turf Moor," said Southgate, who will name his squad for the game on Thursday.

"I’ve been on quite a few scouting trips to Burnley over the last year or so, with Danny Ings being involved with us and now with Nat Chalobah and Michael Keane there on loan. 

"I always think there’s a fantastic atmosphere and it’s a passionate town who really support their club well and I know there’s massive support for England in the town as well."

Southgate still recalls the moment when he first called Ings into his squad ahead of last October’s games with San Marino and Lithuania.

And he was aware of the pride that evoked when the former AFC Bournemouth star netted his first goals for England against San Marino at Shrewsbury the following month. 

So he’s now hoping that the chance to see three Burnley players representing their country on home turf will lead to a packed house on the night.

"I know of the pride that the whole town took when we first picked Danny for England and when he made his debut, so we’re looking forward to it," added the former Aston Villa and Crystal Palace man.

"It’s a very warm and friendly club whenever I go and I’m sure we’ll get a good attendance for what will be a really attractive game."

Having seen off the likes of Finland, Moldova and Lithuania in their qualifying group before beating Croatia in last month’s play-off, Southgate wants to see his squad really tested in the coming months.

Burnley striker Ings has been a regular in the Under-21s squad under Southgate

Portugal had the best record in qualifying after winning all ten of their games, including two victories over the Netherlands in their play-off, to secure their place in the Finals in Czech Republic next summer.

And with a second game against France following swiftly on the back of the match at Turf Moor, Southgate is keen to see England really put to the test.

"That's what we are looking for from the games we have coming up," he explained.

"The games programme we had in Toulon in the summer prepared us for the play-off, including a match against Portugal. 

"We learned a lot from that which gave us game-management skills and decision making skills, that helped us get through, no question."

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.