Dan Burn's 'impressive messages' helped lead to first England call-up as Thomas Tuchel explains surprise decision to call on 32-year-old Newcastle defender

Tuchel and England have announced their squad for the Three Lions' World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia later this month, and among the call-ups have been a number of surprise names. One of those selected is 32-year-old Newcastle defender Burn, who is among two players, the other being teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly, being called up for the first time.

Tuchel has now revealed why he decided to give the Newcastle defender his first-ever call-up. The England head coach admitted he had a number of phone calls from Burn, and the 32-year-old's 'impressive messages' helped his case.

Speaking to the England's official YouTube channel, Tuchel said: "He has had a very impressive career and he’s a very solid player.

"He’s a very solid defender and a leader in the group. I have spoken to Dan and it was a very impressive phone call with very impressive messages that made me very comfortable in this call-up that we have picked a top team player that will help us build the right team."

The Newcastle defender could potentially become the second-oldest debutant for England next week if Tuchel does indeed give him playing time. The Three Lions begin their World Cup qualifying campaign on Friday, March 21 against Albania at Wembley.