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MIDDLESBROUGH star Ben Gibson could be in line to make his England debut against Lithuania today.

The Teesside defender was a late call-up to Gareth Southgate’s squad following Chris Smalling’s injury against Germany on Wednesday night.

And former Boro boss Southgate admits he hasn’t ruled out giving Gibson his first senior cap at Wembley in tonight’s World Cup qualifier.

Gibson, 24, has been in excellent form for the Boro this season, and has been courted by several Premier League sides, with Chelsea and West Ham rumoured to be interested in the Nunthorpe-born defender.

He has been capped at every junior level for England, and Southgate knows what he can bring to the side - revealing there is a ‘chance’ he could start.

“I have considered picking him before,” said the England manager. “He’s a player we worked with at the U21s, so we know him well; we know his personality and character. There is a chance Ben could start.

“I don’t think it would be a gamble to play anybody in the squad. That’s why he’s here. We’re not afraid to put young players in. When you bring someone in late to the squad, for a couple of days, it’s really important that you know who’s coming through the door.

“With him he is already the captain at his club. He’s a Premier League captain at a very young age, which tells you something about his leadership qualities.”