Dominic Calvert-Lewin opened up about the role Chelsea full-back Ben Chilwell played in welcoming him into the England team.
Speaking on the England YouTube channel, Calvert-Lewin named Chilwell as the player that eased him into the Three Lions group the best.
Despite being rivals at club level, the Premier League pair have a good relationship that stretches back to their youth days with the national team.
Both Chilwell and the Everton striker are relatively new to Gareth Southgate’s camp.
Calvert-Lewin made his senior debut last October, whilst Chelsea’s left-back broke his duct in 2018.
The duo achieved enough this season for Southgate to include them in his European Championship squad.
Calvert-Lewin and Chilwell connection
Because he broke into the set-up quite late, Calvert-Lewin detailed Chilwell’s role in easing him into the England side.
“I’d probably say, he’s not an Everton player, but Chilly,” said the Toffees centre-forward.
“I’ve known Chilly for years and we played England U21s.
“I chat to him outside of football as well. It was like coming to see a mate, but at the same time we were representing England, so he made it easy for me to settle in.
“He is a great guy.”
Who will Southgate select?
Chilwell and Calvert-Lewin could both have a major part to play at this summer’s Euros.
Whilst the latter is seen as Harry Kane’s direct understudy, the Chelsea defender is in a straight shootout with Luke Shaw to be the first choice left-back.
Southgate was unable to select his strongest side for either of England’s pre-tournament friendly fixtures.
All of the Chelsea and Manchester City lads were given an extra rest following their Champions League excursions.
Three Lions fans wait with bated breath who will be in the starting line-up against Croatia on Sunday, which may well include Chilwell.
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