Burnley defender James Tarkowski ready to challenge for England starting spot after pain of World Cup standby list
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.James Tarkowski cheered on England as a fan throughout the World Cup but now the Burnley defender is ready to push for a place in Gareth Southgate's team.
The 25-year-old was on Southgate's five-man standby list for Russia but pulled out after undergoing a hernia operation - leaving him at home as the Three Lions made it to the final four.
But, after a speedy recovery, Tarkowski is back in the England fold having already featured nine times for the Clarets following their failed Europa League qualification run.
The former Brentford man will now be hoping to pick up a second senior cap as England face Spain in the Uefa Nations League before a friendly meeting with Switzerland - something that would have felt a way off as he watched from afar during the summer.
"Obviously it was a disappointment," he told Sky Sports News about missing out on a potential place at the World Cup.
"Anyone missing out on the World Cup would be disappointed but I knew the position I was in and something needed to be doing in July so I just thought I would bite the bullet, as they say, and it got me right so I started the season well and got back into the squad.
"I was just a fan, I spent a lot of time with my friends watching the football. I enjoyed what I was watching, it was a great time to be an England fan and there was a great atmosphere around the country, so even to be a small part of that squad was a great opportunity.
"Obviously to see your country doing so well in a World Cup was brilliant and the way the country backed them was fantastic and part of the progress the team has made over the last couple of years has been brilliant."
Tarkowski's sole cap to date came in a back three in a 1-1 friendly draw with Italy in March and he is ready to challenge Kyle Walker, Harry Maguire and John Stones - the men who started there for most of the World Cup - for a place in the team.
"If there is an extra spot available, obviously it gives me a better chance to be part of the squad," he said on Southgate opting to play three central defenders.
"I quite enjoyed the game. I played in a three at the back against Italy and so I don't think it is something that will go against me. If there is an opportunity for a spot there for me, I am going to try and take it.
"I think it is pretty obvious with how well the lads did in the World Cup that they were the three lads who played throughout and did well so they have got those positions.
"I am here to help push them and if I can push them and find myself a spot than so be it, but I'm here to be part of the squad and help the team as much as I can."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments