Clarets man aiming to roll Stones for England

JAMES Tarkowski is aiming to replace injured defender John Stones in England’s Euro 2020 qualifiers against the Czech Republic and Montenegro.

The 26-year-old Burnley centre-back has returned to Gareth Southgate’s squad having missed the last international break through injury.

Tarkowski collected his two England caps either side of the World Cup, having been on standby for Russia before requiring a hernia operation which meant he would not have been able to deputise if called on.

Even though the Clarets have shipped 59 goals in the Premier League so far this season – with only Fulham conceding more – Tarkowski has done enough to earn a recall, having undergone further surgery on the troublesome hernia issue earlier in the campaign.

But he does not intend to be just a spectator as the clamour for places in a strong line-up continues to increase, with Southgate a defender light following Stones’ withdrawal due to a groin problem.

“Obviously Stonesy isn’t here so there is a position vacant at the moment,” said Tarkowski.

“I want to be a part of the team and be playing, but I understand how hard it is just to make the squad never mind make the starting XI. But I will be doing everything I can to impress.

“It is nice to know that the people in charge of picking the teams believe in the player you are and what you are doing. I always work hard on my game to improve and, knowing the managers are backing the work I’m doing, it gives you the confidence to go out there and show what you can do.”