Konsa never doubted England call-up would come

Ezri Konsa was always confident he would eventually earn an England call-up.

The Aston Villa defender has finally broken into Gareth Southgate's squad alongside Cole Palmer and Rico Lewis, who have also joined the senior camp for the first time.

Konsa said: "I knew I had a lot to work on in my game. Only recently now, the last two seasons, we've excelled at Villa and that part of it has helped me become the player I am today. 

"I knew my time would come, it was just a matter of when. I was patient and I'm proud. Me and my family are really happy. 

"I've always believed in myself, always backed myself. I'm really enjoying my football now at the moment and the rest is taking care of itself.

"I think every player's target is to go to major tournaments and play for your country. So that's [Euro 2024] definitely on my mind and definitely something I plan on doing."

Konsa has been ever-present for the Villans in the Premier League this term and has earned the praise of Chelsea legend John Terry.

The pair worked together in the Midlands and the 26-year-old ace was quick to thank his former mentor.

He added: "It means a lot coming from a legend like JT. 

"I worked with him for two years and he really helped my game. 

"I used to ask him a lot of questions on how he was able to maintain playing at such a high level and he gave me a lot of advice. I definitely took that on and it's helped me become the player I am. 

"He was in touch with me, sent me a nice little message. He just said congratulations, that I need to enjoy it and be myself."