Abraham, Tomori make England call-ups for European qualifiers

 

Chelsea pair Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori have earned call-ups for the European Qualifiers against Czech Republic and Bulgaria.

Despite having earned two senior England caps in friendlies with Germany and Brazil in November 2017, Abraham is still eligible to play for Nigeria. His inclusion in the squad appears to pledge his allegiance to England.

The Chelsea striker has seven goals in as many Premier League appearances this season, just one less than top scorer Sergio Aguero, and scored his first Champions League goal on his 22nd birthday on Wednesday.

Southgate said: “He is the leading English goal scorer in the league. He is a player that we put into the squad very young at a time when we wanted to have a look at some younger players and change the complexion of what we were doing.

“It was a bit early for him and now it is brilliant the opportunity he has been given by Frank (Lampard) along with some of the other young English players at Chelsea. It has been fabulous for them.

“He has really grasped this opportunity. It is thoroughly deserved.”

Gareth Southgate praises Chelsea’s youth set up and explains why he’s called up Tammy Abraham to England’s latest squad for games against the Czech Republic and Bulgaria.

Tomori is enjoying a successful breakthrough season at Chelsea, following a loan spell at Derby alongside Mason Mount under manager Lampard.

The 21-year-old has made four Premier League and two Champions League starts for Chelsea, and scored his first goal with a spectacular strike in a 5-2 win at Wolves in September.

The Canadian-born defender has previously featured for his country of birth at U20 level, but has since gone on to earn 15 caps for England U20s, winning the World Cup in 2017, and 15 caps for the U21s.

Southgate said: “His profile as a defender fits with the way that international football is. His athleticism is important. He is capable with the ball. It’s a good opportunity for us to take a closer look at him.

“He is in good form so he’ll be feeling confident about himself. He’s played very well for Chelsea against some very good opponents. It’s a great opportunity for him.”

Meanwhile, talks are understood to be progressing well over new five-year Chelsea deals for Abraham and Tomori.

The pair have made impressive starts to life in the Blues first team after being thrown in by manager Frank Lampard.

It is hoped the Blues can reach agreements for the pair in the coming weeks.