Chelsea prospect hopeful of England breakthrough

Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah says England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals under Gareth Southgate has given even greater belief that young talent will get their chance to shine.

Chalobah, 19, who has joined Ipswich Town on a season-long loan, told The Sun: “Watching what the first team have done, it has given all of us youngsters confidence.

“I think everyone feels like this is the best time for us England players.”

A young squad, including Harry Maguire, John Stones, Dele Alli, Harry Kane, Jordan Pickford and Jesse Lingard, took to the final four, where they were beaten in extra-time by Croatia.

Southgate has also showed his faith in teenagers like Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Chalobah, who was part of England’s victorious Under-19s European Championship side last summer, has yet to play a first-team game for the Blues.

But he was an unused substitute in the FA Cup final win over Manchester United in May.

He added: “Trent has shown that the hard work he has put in for his club gained Gareth Southgate’s trust and his inclusion gives huge hope for the rest of us.”

Chalobah and fellow Chelsea youngster Dujon Sterling played as England began their Under-19 European Championship campaign with a 3-2 win over Turkey on Tuesday.