Thomas Tuchel called up Hill, who grew up in Lancashire, after Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa was forced to drop out of the squad with an injury.

Fleetwood Town academy graduate James Hill, son of former Blackpool defender Matt Hill, could become just the second player in the Cods’ history to represent England following his call-up earlier today.

Hill came through the academy ranks at Highbury and made his first team debut for Fleetwood in August 2018. He spent four and a half impressive seasons with Fleetwood Town’s first team, featuring 43 times.

His impressive performances attracted attention from a host of clubs in higher divisions, including some in the Premier League. In January 2022, Hill joined then-Championship side Bournemouth for a seven figure fee.

After biding his time on the south coast, Hill is now an ever-present in Marco Rose's side, playing every minute in the Premier League so far this season with the Cherries riding high in seventh, and featuring in every European tie.

The 24-year-old has the chance to become only the second Fleetwood player to represent England when Thomas Tuchel’s side face Croatia at Wembley on Thursday. Jamie Vardy is currently the only Cods player to have played for the Three Lions.

Hill's dad is Bristol-born defender Matt Hill, who after seven years at home town club Bristol City, joined local rivals Preston in 2005. Matt spent one season at Bloomfield Road in 2011, making 4 appearances.

England’s full squad for this international break is as follows: