Gareth Southgate says he has been impressed with Eddie Nketiah’s finishing at Arsenal after selecting him for his latest England squad.
Nketiah has earned his first call up to the England senior squad for the games against Ukraine and Scotland following a positive start to the campaign which has seen him score two goals in the opening three games for the Gunners.
And Southgate says he is intrigued by what the forward has to offer in an England shirt.
“Eddie is coming in because we’d like to have a look at him,” Southgate explained.
“He’s a young player with really good pedigree, a very good finisher, and it’s good for him to have some time with us.
“I think he’s the record goalscorer for the under-21s as well. He’s not had the chance to work with us up to this point but he’s a player we’re really interested in.”
Nketiah’s inclusion, however, came at the omission of Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling despite an impressive start to the new season with his club.
Sterling has been a key player under Southgate – playing an important role in each of the major tournaments under the England boss, who admits the 28-year-old is not happy about the situation.
“He was not available for the last two and that has given other people the opportunity to play well and establish themselves in the group,” Southgate added.
“It is a difficult call and Raheem isn’t particularly happy about it. I’m convinced he will have a good season at Chelsea, I’ve no doubt about that.”
