Bertrand biding his time

Southampton full-back Ryan Bertrand is grateful for his recent England cameo and is now aiming to earn another call-up in the not-too-distant future.

The 25-year-old has often been overlooked by Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson, and was only afforded the chance to represent his country after a spate of injuries in the left-back position.

He came on as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Italy last month, replacing Kieran Gibbs with just a handful of minutes left in the FIFA friendly.

Reflecting on the night in question and picking up his third England cap, Bertrand said: “The international break changed from one extreme to the next, but it was good to get back in the frame and get back in the door.

“It was good to get on the pitch, even though it was very brief.

“When you actually sit there, it hits you that all them years you spent as a kid watching football games, the England games were always the biggest.

“To finally sit there and be part of it and wear the actual kit and everything, knowing the whole country is cheering you on is fantastic.”

Due to the proliferation of options at left-back, Bertrand is all to aware that he faces a real fight to feature for Engand on a regular basis.

He added: “You know, it’s down to (the manager). Whoever he wants to pick, it is his decision.

“I’ll just concentrate on my game. I’m confident enough to know that I should be in there, but I don’t pick the team so I’ll just keep playing.”