SOUTHEND United goalkeeper Ted Smith has been called up into England’s under 20 squad.

The former King John School pupil, who lives in Benfleet, has previously represented his country at under 18 and 19 level.

But he has now also been called up into the under 20 squad for England’s game against Czech Republic which takes place on Monday September 7 at Shrewsbury Town’s Greenhous Meadow.

And Smith admitted he was thrilled to have been selected.

“I played a couple of games for the under-19s and was left out of their last squad, so I'm really pleased to make that progression to the under-20s now,” said Smith.

“I know quite a few of the lads in the team from under-18s but it will be nice to meet up with some new faces as well.

“The under-20s is a step up for me, and the next step after is the 21s but I'll have to make sure I impress when called upon.”