Cook can add fresh ingredient
LEWIS COOK has yet to kick a ball for England’s senior side, but already knows he can bring something different to the Three Lions table.
The 21-year-old Bournemouth midfielder has been called up for the upcoming friendlies against Holland and Italy.
And he has already achieved something no other member of Gareth Southgate’s squad has, having skippered his country to glory in last year’s Under-20 World Cup in Venezuela.
That triumph made him the first England captain since Bobby Moore in 1966 to lift a world trophy.
Cook – who also won the U17 Euros in 2014, alongside another member of Southgate’s squad, defender Joe Gomez – said: “I learnt a lot about tournament football, and maybe I can give my feedback on that and try to help the team.
“Last summer put me in good stead for this year and I just need to keep growing and learning.”
Despite his self belief, the former Leeds starlet is not one to get ahead of himself.
“Lewis is very levelheaded and controlled,” said Cherries boss Eddie Howe.
“He doesn’t get carried away by anything. He is focused on his football, which is one of the best assets to have.”
Cook, who was first drafted into the England squad for November’s friendly with Brazil, is trying not to think about this summer’s World Cup.
He added: “If that happens (a World Cup call up), it happens, but I am just focusing on this camp now and giving my all.”