SOUTHEND United midfielder Dru Yearwood initially found it hard to believe his England call-up was true.

The Shrimpers youngster will be part of the Three Lions under-18 squad heading to China later this month.

But it took time for the news to sink in for Yearwood.

“It all comes through by email and luckily my mum checks her emails a lot so she saw it,” said the 18-year-old.

“To start off with I wasn’t sure whether or not it was true because it came as a shock and it wasn’t something I had ever really thought about either.

“Getting an England call-up really hadn’t crossed my mind if I’m honest.

“I had just been focusing on having a good season and doing well in the games I was getting.

“But I’m so happy this has happened and I’m glad it was actually true!”

Yearwood started all 18 of Chris Powell’s games in charges during the second half of the season.

And the midfielder said the call-up was the perfect way to end the season.

“It’s the icing on the cake for me and I’m happy to have been recognised,” said Yearwood.

“It feels a bit weird but I’m happy and the hard work has paid off.

“It’s going to be interesting to see what it’s like playing against other countries.”

England’s under-18 side face Uruguay in their first game on May 23 before facing China two days later.

The Three Lions will then take on Hungary on May 27 and he is hopeful of being involved despite suffering a hamstring in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Bristol Rovers at Roots Hall.

“I’ll be working hard to get fit but hopefully it should be alright,” said Yearwood.

“It would be the best way possible to end what has been a good season for me.”

Yearwood made 28 appearances during his breakthrough campaign with Blues.

And he was keen to thank those who have helped him to succeed.

“I’ve had great support from so many people at the club and my family as well,” said Yearwood.

“They’ve been brilliant to me and so have all the Southend fans, even though I did think they were actually booing me to start with instead of actually saying my name!”