Nathaniel Clyne: England debut was best day of my life

Saturday 15 Nov 2014
Nathaniel Clyne helped England to a 3-1 win on his debut

Nathaniel Clyne admits that his England debut was a boy's dream come true after helping the Three Lions to a 3-1 victory over Slovenia.

The Southampton right-back was given his first cap by Roy Hodgson for their European Qualifier at Wembley, and they stretched their lead at the top of Group E.

A penalty from captain Wayne Rooney followed by a Danny Welbeck brace brought England from a goal behind to take their winning streak to five on the bounce.

England 3-1 Slovenia

European Qualifier
Saturday 15 November
Wembley Stadium connected by EE

"It was probably one of the best days of my life," said Clyne when he spoke to TheFA.com after the game. 

"It's what I've been dreaming about ever since I was a little boy, playing for England, and I got to do it today.

"It's a great feeling to come out here and play at Wembley for England. It's a proud moment for me, my family and my friends."

He continued: "It was a great experience lining up with the lads, singing the national anthem, getting prepared for the game. I enjoyed playing today and am looking forward to playing more."

"I was a little bit nervous, I'm not going to lie, but as I got myself out onto the pitch the nerves went and it turned out to be a normal game of football."

Nathaniel Clyne

Nathaniel Clyne on his 'best day'

Clyne, who received his first call-up to the squad for last month's double-header was finally given the nod at right-back as England wrapped up their home fixtures for 2014.

The 23-year-old south Londoner has become a Premier League regular since joining Southampton from Crystal Palace two years ago.

His performances have helped the Saints to the lofty position of second in the top flight and he says that his form gave him the confidence as he made his international bow. 

"I tried to play my normal game, as it's my normal game that has got me this call-up," he said. "If I played how I play for my club I knew it would be good enough.

"It was a great team performance, we created a lot of chances. We didn't get the goal in the first half, but we re-grouped in the second half, got the goal and won the game."

Clyne added: "Once we conceded a fluke of a goal, we got our heads together, went up another gear and Slovenia couldn't handle it.

"We've won all our games so far and we're looking to win again in our next one – the friendly to Scotland – so hopefully we can do the same."

England defender Nathaniel Clyne speaks after his debut

 


By Jamie Bradbury FA Editor at Wembley Stadium connected by EE