Dael Fry says the hurt of losing his England place inspired him to improve and claw his way back into the Three Lions fold.
The Middlesbrough centre-back won praise from head coach Neil Dewsnip for his performance against Russia on Monday as he helped the Under-18s to a 2-0 victory in Moscow.
That was Fry's first international appearance since a defeat in Italy last September, and he says he knew he had to perform at Arena Khimki.
Russia v England
International U18 Match
4pm, Wednesday 10 June 2015
Arena Khimki, Moscow
"It has hurt being left out of the last few squads. It has been something I've thought about and I knew I had to take my chance if I started," he told TheFA.com.
"When I wasn't in it I was always on my Twitter keeping updated with what was happening with the England squad. There are quite a few good centre-halves this age, and although I was gutted not to get the call, I knew I had to keep working hard."
He continued: "It's the first time I'd played with Tosin [ and he's a good player - he helped a lot to keep things organised.
“The lad we were up against was a big boy himself, but me and Tosin kept him quiet and I think we won every header.
"I was really pleased to leave a good impression on the manager, especially as [England U19s head coach] Sean O'Driscoll is out here too. I want to be in his thoughts for next year and if I can produce another good performance on Wednesday I will have given him something to think about.
"I've done well this year at Boro with the U18s and U21s. We won the league with both and qualified for the UEFA Youth League, so I was really happy to finish the season with a call up for this trip to Moscow.
"Now I've got to keep doing what I've been doing. I feel like I have improved this year, especially my communication skills on the pitch. I've tried to become a better organiser and play like a captain."
Freddie Woodman and Dael Fry at Red Square on Tuesday
His call-up for the trip east gave Fry the opportunity the build on his growing friendship with Newcastle United goalkeeper Freddie Woodman - and continue their "lucky" pre-match ritual.
"I always feel comfortable with Freddie playing behind me, he's always talking and telling me where to be," explained the Teesside-born defender.
"Off the pitch, this is the sixth time we've roomed together and we've become close friends.
"We even have a few little superstitions what people will probably laugh at."
Pressed to explain, Fry relented and revealed: "It started last year before the Euro Final - we stood next to each other and looked in the mirror and said 'We are going to be European Champions' - obviously we won that night and we have carried it on since.
"Now we just say before each match, 'This is our day'. It might sound daft but it seems to work and gets us focused."
Fry, Woodman and the rest of the Young Lions squad visited Red Square in Moscow on Tuesday afternoon.
Having the opportunity to take in the sights in one of the world's largest cities has left an impression on the 17-year-old.
"It's one of the most impressive places I've ever been. It's been interesting to learn about the history of the place and I just feel lucky that I've had the opportunity to see it in person.
"Not many people from Middlesbrough will have been here and I'm so fortunate I've been able to do it while representing my country.
"It was quite spectacular and me and the lads really enjoyed it - especially having a little kickabout.
"The whole trip has been brilliant so far and we just want to finish it off with another win on Wednesday."
