Everton defender made his England under-21 bow.
Tottenham’s Dele Alli in action with Everton’s Mason Holgate and Ross Barkley
Everton youngster Mason Holgate has commented after making his England under-21 debut.
Holgate featured for the Young Lions against Kazakhstan in a tricky away tie.
He helped England keep a clean sheet and record a 1-0 win, with Leicester City attacker Demarai Gray scoring the only goal of the game.
Writing on Instagram, Holgate said: “Buzzing to make my England u21 debut tonight! Topped off by winning and qualifying for euros in summer!”
Everton’s Mason Holgate has shot blocked by West Bromwich Albion’s Claudio Yacob
Holgate’s call into the under-21 squad was reward for a big step in his development at club level this season, forcing his way into the plans of new boss Ronald Koeman.
The defender signed from Barnsley a year ago, but spent last season training and playing with Everton’s under-21 squad.
West Bromwich Albion’s Salomon Rondon in action with Everton’s Mason Holgate
Still only 19-years-old, Holgate has made three Premier League starts for the Toffees this season, plus a further two in the EFL Cup.
Holgate has one assist to his name at club level too, but hasn’t played in the league since August, so will have welcomed the chance for some more competitive game time.
England have already qualified for next year’s European championships, but have one more qualifier to play next Tuesday against Bosnia, and Holgate will hope he has done enough to be involved again.
Everton’s Kieran Dowell and Mason Holgate wait before being substituted
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