West Ham defender Ben Johnson is delighted over his chance with England U21s.
The fullback, who has featured 25 times in all competitions for David Moyes' first-team this season and is closing in on 50 senior appearances, earned his first-ever call-up to the Young Lions' set-up earlier this month.
Johnson told whufc.com, "There have been a few squads where I've thought I might sneak in and never have. I'm just grateful for it.
"It was just great. I actually found out before the [Sevilla] game. I had a phone call with Lee Carsley, the U21s manager, and he was saying how he's been watching me and he's been impressed with me.
"We had a brief conversation – he just said “congratulations" to me, that I'd made the squad - and it was just really positive to speak to someone who made me feel already welcome. He just gave me a great vibe.
"It was great to hear that from a former player and somebody who's been coaching top, top players in the Premier League. I'm really looking forward to it. I feel like I am ready, and just excited to go and train and play.
"It's terrific just to be here. It's quite surreal as well because you dream of playing for England, but not many players are able to do it, and no matter what level, it is a great achievement. It's a huge honour for me to be able to be here."
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