One-time Pompey schoolboy gets England call-up

Boyhood Pompey supporter James Ward-Prowse has been called up to the England senior squad for the first time.

The 22-year-old midfielder has been included by Gareth Southgate for the away friendly against Germany on March 22, before the Three Lions face a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania at Wembley four days later.

Despite being a former season-ticket holder at Fratton Park and a player who was briefly part of Pompey’s youth set-up, Ward-Prowse joined the youth ranks at Southampton aged eight.

He has gone on to make 162 appearances for the St Mary’s club.

Ward-Prowse has also featured 27 times for the England Under-21 side, playing under Southgate.

Elsewhere in the squad, there is a recall for former Blues striker Jemain Defoe.

The 34-year-old striker hasn’t played for his country since November 2013, when he won the last of his caps against Chile.

Former St John’s College pupil, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, has also been included in Southgate’s squad selection.