JAMES Tarkowski is targeting a return to the England fold, and he would love Turf Moor team-mate Ben Mee to join him.

Tarkowski has two England caps, after making his international debut in March 2018.

But he has been overlooked since having to pull out of the squad due to a hernia problem last year.

The central defender has previously expressed his disappointment at missing out, but hopes his consistency this season can open the Three Lions’ door once more, and also offer a first opportunity for Mee.

Tarkowski, Mee and England goalkeeper Nick Pope have played every minute in the Premier League this season - helping the Clarets to earn 11 clean sheets. Only leaders Liverpool have more.

Mee is the only one out of that Turf Moor trio to yet receive an England call-up. But Tarkowski believes the Burnley captain is doing all the right things to catch Gareth Southgate’s eye.

“He probably deserves it the way he’s played over the last few seasons. To keep himself fit and perform week in week out for us has been brilliant,” said the defender.

“I’d obviously pick him but it’s out of my hands.

“We’ve had some very good performances from English lads this year. Popey has been brilliant and Charlie (Taylor) has been mentioned at left back, and Ben beside me has been brilliant, “There have been players performing consistently throughout the season but the competition out there is high so just making the squad is difficult.

“There’s a lot of talent out there, a lot of players fighting for positions, not just in my position but in other positions as well so just making that squad is very difficult.”

Of his own chances, Tarkowski added: “It’s obviously something I’m looking to do and want to be involved in but I know how difficult it is just to make that squad.

“I can only do so much. I can just show what I’m about and then it’s down to the manager to decide what players suit his style and what he wants to do with the team.

“I’m doing the best I can to be involved but it’s out of my hands once I get off the pitch.”