Townsend: "The Hard Work Starts Now"

By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor

Andros Townsend has spoken of the "honour" of being called up to England's provisional Euro 2016 squad, but admits "the hard work starts now."

On Monday, the in-form Newcastle United winger was named in the Three Lions' 26-man squad, which will be cut by three players before the tournament in France kicks-off next month.

And having got this close to starring on one of the biggest stages, Townsend has vowed to do everything possible to ensure he makes the final party.

"From my performances over the last couple of months - and the team's performances - I knew I could do a good job for England, if selected," he told nufc.co.uk in an exclusive interview.

"But you can't take anything for granted and you don't know what the national manager is thinking.

"All you can do is keep playing well on the pitch and hope that your good form is being noticed.

"I'm delighted that the manager noticed and recalled me to the squad.

"I was a bit surprised because I haven't been involved in the last few squads, but I was extremely delighted and it's a huge honour to be called up.

"The hard work starts now. I've got two weeks to try and force my way into the final 23."

After limited game time during the first half of the 2015/16 campaign at former club Tottenham Hotspur, Townsend moved to St. James' Park in January, and caught the eye over the final four months of the season, with four goals in 13 appearances.

And the 24-year-old admits he owes his England call-up to the Magpies faith in his ability. 

"It's no secret that I hadn't been getting too much game time over the past season-and-a-bit, and Newcastle took a chance on me, brought me to the Club and I can't thank them enough," he continued.

"Ever since the manager (Rafa Benitez) came in, you can see that he's taken my game to another level.

"I'm hugely grateful and if I get the opportunity to go to the Euros, I will be proud to do so representing Newcastle."

So what would it mean to United star to be stepping out against Russia, Wales and Slovakia in Group B this summer?

"It would be a dream come true," Townsend replied.

"It's every young boy's dream to grow up and go on to play at a major tournament for their country, and I am no different.

"It would be the best achievement of my career so far but there is still a long way to go and a lot of hard work. Hopefully in a couple of weeks I wlll make the final 23.

"Playing for England and pulling on that shirt is a huge honour. You are deemed to be one of the 23 best English players, and to represent your country in any sport is the highlight of your career.

"Hopefully I can add to my ten caps over this summer."