Everton’s Holgate hungry for success after impressive debut season

Everton defender Mason Holgate is hoping to continue his rapid progress by helping England Under-21s to glory at June’s European Championships.

The 20-year-old, signed from Barnsley in the summer of 2015, made his debut in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in August.

He made 18 Premier League appearances over the course of the season, and is keeping his fingers crossed for a place in Aidy Boothroyd’s Young Lions squad for the tournament in Poland.

He also spoke of his delight at playing a substantial role in the first-team this season, and has vowed not to rest on his laurels.

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

“I’m hoping to get called up for the Euros with England Under-21s, so hopefully it won’t be a massive [summer] break for me but we’ll see what happens,” he said.

“It’s a massive honour to represent your country, it’s something I dreamed of doing growing up. We’ve got a good team, we feel like we can do well and push for honours.

“When you look through all the age groups at England, there are a good few Everton lads with each team. It shows we’re doing well and we’re all happy to be getting chances.

“I’ve been really happy to be so involved this season, but it is only the start for me.

“I’m looking to improve and to progress more next season, so I’m more involved to the point where I’m consistently on the team sheet.”