Southampton’s Nathaniel Clyne gained his first England cap on Saturday in the national team’s 3-1 Euro 2016 qualifier victory over Slovenia. It was a successful England debut for the Premier League star whose talent was nurtured by Brixton-based Afeewee Academy.
The Stockwell-born footballer put on a controlled, assured display at right-back after being given the nod ahead of Arsenal’s Calum Chambers. Clyne’s Wembley debut is the highlight of a great run of performances that have helped the Saints rise to second place in the Premier League.
“It’s a great feeling to come out here and play at Wembley for England. It’s a proud moment for me, my family and my friends”, said Clyne in his post-match reflections for The FA.
“It was a great experience lining up with the lads, singing the national anthem, getting prepared for the game. I enjoyed playing today and am looking forward to playing more.
“I was a little bit nervous, I’m not going to lie, but as I got myself out onto the pitch the nerves went and it turned out to be a normal game of football. It’s what I’ve been dreaming about ever since I was a little boy, playing for England”.
