Ben Godfrey’s emergence at Norwich City has been rewarded with a call-up to the England Under-20s squad for internationals against Poland and Portugal later this month.

The defender has been a revelation for the Canaries this season, forming a partnership at centre half with Christoph Zimmermann that is keeping the experienced duo of Grant Hanley and Timm Klose on the bench.

His performances have caught the eye of the England hierarchy and manager Paul Simpson has included the former York City man in his 23-man squad for the Young Lions’ double header in the Euro Elite League.

“We’re going into these games with a very strong squad,” said Simpson, whose side entertain Poland on Thursday, March 21 before heading to Portugal the following Tuesday.

“It’s a very similar squad to our previous camps this season, apart from a few players successfully going up to the U21s, and it’s good to have that consistency.

“We’re expecting two tough games. Poland are coming with their U21 Talent ID group and Portugal are recognised as one of the best U20 teams in Europe, so we know that these matches will be a good test for us.

“The main objectives for us is for our players to continue their development in international football, along with preparing for this summer’s Toulon Tournament.”