Another name looks sets to be added to Preston's lengthy list of international representatives on Tuesday evening as on loan striker Andy Carroll prepares to line up for England's U19s in their international friendly with Belarus at Notts County.
The game represents England's only warm-up encounter ahead of the qualifying rounds for next summer's European Under 19 Championships in the Czech Republic, so the players selected tonight have a great chance to stake their claim for a place in the XI when the competitive action against Iceland, Romania and Belgium comes round in a triple header during October.
It's an opportunity that Carroll wants to take with both hands, with the Newcastle loan man itching to prove his worth after being tipped for a starting berth. He admitted:
"I can't wait for the game. It'll be my debut so hopefully I can get on the scoresheet, play well, win the game and get in the squad for the qualifiers next month - that's what I'm aiming for!
"Things are going well in training and I'm really enjoying it. It's certainly different to what I'm used to because everyone sits off you more and you get more time on the ball.
"There are some great players in the squad like Fabian Brandy from Man Utd and Sam Hutchinson from Chelsea and I'm looking forward to playing alongside them."
The England under 19 head coach, Brian Eastick, told TheFA.com that the game represents a crucial milestone for his squad, given the recent alterations to UEFA's qualifying format for next summer's championships. A big performance from Carroll would seemingly do him no harm after Eastick revealed:
"A change in the UEFA rules means that all countries must now enter the competition at this stage, irrespective of their European ranking.
"In effect it means that we must now get through both the Preliminary and Elite Qualifying competitions in order to reach the finals, so Tuesday's game takes on significant importance with regard to our preparation."
The game kicks off at 7.45pm and any fans fancying a trip to the East Midlands can pick up their tickets priced at £3 for adults in advance (£5 on the night) and £1 for concessions by calling the Notts County ticket line on 0115 955 7204.
