SOUTHEND United defender Ollie Kensdale has spoken of his excitement after being named in the England C squad for the first time.

The Shrimpers centre-back is one of 16 players to be included in Paul Fairclough’s squad for Monday’s match with Nepal.

And the 24-year-old is delighted to have been included.

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“I’m buzzing to get the recognition,” said Kensdale.

“First of all I found out I was in the provisional squad, but then I was really happy to make the final cut and find that out too.

“It will be a great experience and one that I haven’t had before so I’m really excited.

“At any level, representing your country is an honour so hopefully I get the opportunity to get some game time for England which would be great.”

Kensdale, who made 42 appearances for Blues this season, has not played since the final day of the National League campaign last month.

But he still feels in good shape.

“It’s a strange time to have the game, but it’s one of them that you’d never turn down,” said Kensdale.

“Hopefully I won’t have lost too much fitness being only a couple of weeks after a hard season.