The Fulham midfielder was a regular in the U16s set-up last season, featuring in both the Victory Shield and Montaigu Tournament, but he is yet to represent his country this campaign – and that is something he is looking to put right in the upcoming games against Holland, Portugal and Germany.
“There have been a few times when John [Peacock] has rang up my coach, but I’ve had to miss out with injury, like the America trip,” Nabay explained to TheFA.com.
“It's been frustrating, but it has made me even more determined to get back in the squad and stay in it.
England v Holland
The U17 Algarve Tournament
3.30pm, Friday 13 February
Estádio Municipal Bela Vista, Parchal
“I’ve been performing quite consistently for Fulham and trying to make myself an important part of how we play. I like to get on the ball a lot, and I’ve done a lot better this season than I did last.
“I’m enjoying my football and doing what I like doing – getting on the ball and knocking it about.”
After the launch of the England DNA in December, Nabay and his team-mates are excited about the way the national teams will be playing their football over the coming years, and he says the new thinking behind it is refreshing to see.
“It’s definitely positive. A couple of years ago when I was younger, coaches only mainly looked at players who were physically developed. If you weren’t big then they maybe would not have given you a chance,” he said.
“But if you are smart enough with the ball, then you don’t have to be big or strong to outsmart your opponent and you can avoid just getting into a physical battle with them.
“And looking at the other teams we’ll be facing here, they look like they will be physically strong, so it will be up to us to move the ball quickly and try to outsmart them.”
Having been out of the international fold for ten months, the 16-year-old has settled in well since meeting up with his team-mates on Sunday, and he says it felt great to be back out on the training pitch with the Young Lions.
“It’s been good familiarising myself with the lads again. I know most of them, having played with or against them before. I’ve been getting along with everyone and it’s been good.
“It feels great to be back, especially after the training sessions we’ve had. It’s been a relief to get a bit of a blow-out on the pitch after a few days of not playing due to travelling etc.
“The afternoon session on Tuesday was brilliant, we had a bit of crossing and shooting practise.”
And with the European Championship Elite Round Qualifiers fast approaching, Nabay and his team-mates know the hard work starts now – although the former Birmingham City youngster is just taking it one step at a time.
“I haven’t had much chance to think about that at the moment. I just want to concentrate on performing well here. If I do well, then hopefully that will take care of itself and I’ll be in the squad for the Elites.”
England face Holland on Friday, kick-off 3pm. Follow @England on Twitter for match updates.
