West Brom loanee Harvey Barnes earns first England U21 call-up as Claude Puel refuses to rule out recall
Harvey Barnes has earned his first call-up to the England U21s squad, following his dazzling early season form for West Brom.
The Albion loanee has been hugely impressive since joining from Leicester on a temporary basis, with Darren Moore also backing him to have a bright international future.
And Barnes has now been given his chance to impress at international level under England U21s coach Aidy Boothroyd - alongside the likes of Manchester City starlet Phil Foden and Arsenal forward Reiss Nelson.
They link up with the squad following the promotion of midfielders James Maddison and Mason Mount to the senior England set-up, showing Gareth Southgate's preference to giving promising players a chance at full international level.
Barnes could feature in games against Andorra and Scotland, as the Young Lions aim to secure their place at the U21 European Championships next summer. They need just a single point from the two clashes to qualify.
He's joined by Aston Villa loanee Tammy Abraham in the squad, while former Villa loanee Josh Onomah is also included.
Meanwhile, Leicester City boss Claude Puel has refused to rule out a recall for the promising midfielder this season.
Barnes was previously recalled from a loan spell with Barnsley last season, and there are fears amongst Baggies fans that the same could happen this year following his impressive form at The Hawthorns.
Puel has done little to allay those fears, admitting that he's been keeping a keen eye on the 20-year-old this season.
"I follow Harvey’s performances of course but in January we will see what happens." he said.
"I am happy with his work and about the quality he puts on the pitch, and about the good way, good football for him. We will see."
"This situation with this young player on the team, I think gives a good boost for all the club.
“We have different payers on the national team, young players like Barnes who has performed well at this club [Albion].
“I think it is a good reward for all the club and all the coaches to give this way for the club with the development of young players.
“I think it is a fantastic boost for the club. I hope we can continue this work and Harvey Barnes is a good example."
Sam Field and Kyle Edwards have been called up to England U20s, Nathan Ferguson and Rekeem Harper are in the England U19 squad, and Morgan Rogers will meet up with England U17s.
