Wolves' Malone in first England call

The 18-year-old is part of the 18-man squad which will meet for the first time under new coach Noel Blake ahead of the game on Tuesday September 8 (7pm).

He will be rubbing shoulders with young players of growing reputation on the Premier League stage including Arsenal's latest 'wonderkid' Jack Wilshere, John Bostock from Tottenham and Villa's young star Nathan Delfouneso.

Malone said: "It's come out of the blue a little bit, but obviously I'm delighted. I'm not sure if it's come about because of how I did in Hungary, but I also think I did reasonably well in pre-season.

"I'm due to turn up to meet the squad on the 5th and hopefully if I can train well I'll be involved in some capacity, whether starting or coming off the bench.

"Every young player always wants to try and play for their country. If I get on it will be a proud moment."

Malone is reaping the benefits of his four months on loan to Wolves' sister club Ujpest in the Hungarian top division, regularly playing in front of crowds in excess of 10,000 and gleaning vital experience.

He said: "Going out to Hungary was a really good experience – I went out a boy and came back a man. Now I'm back and training with the pros, which is great.

"I've just got to keep working hard, because like everyone you're always hoping to come through and make it to the first team.

"If anyone needs any motivation then you only have to look at James Spray who's travelled with the team and was on the bench at Wigan.

"The same happened with Ashley Hemmings, who got a couple of appearances at the end of last season. Anything is possible, if you keep working hard and do the right things.

"I'm just hoping I can try and impress in training. I am looking forward to the first reserves game on Wednesday as another chance to show what I can do."