Nathaniel Clyne is hoping to be a part of something extremely rare this summer – an England football team that wins a major trophy.

The Saints defender is likely to find out next week if he has been named in the squad that will compete in this year’s Under-21 European Championship.

It is expected that Clyne will have a ticket for the plane to Israel, having been a regular in Stuart Pearce’s Young Lions side during the qualification campaign.

Although being selected would impinge on his summer break, the right-back is relishing the chance to represent his country in a major competition.

“It’s a big opportunity for me to play in a tournament such as the under-21s, lots of players have done well after going to that tournament and hopefully I can do the same if I’m picked,” said Clyne.

“It’s a lot of football, but it gives me a chance to improve and get some experience at international level.”

England will head into the Euros as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, having won their last nine matches without conceding a goal.

They have come close before under Pearce, losing to the Netherlands in the 2007 semi-final after an epic penalty shootout, before being beaten in the 2009 final by Germany.

“I think we’re unbeaten in nine and haven’t conceded either. That’s quality,” said Clyne. “We’re confident going into the tournament and hopefully we can do England proud and win it.

“That would be great. Throughout my career I want to be the one winning trophies and hopefully if I progress well and the team does well we can win it.”

Pearce has said previously that he is likely to name his squad in the week beginning May 13.

If Clyne is chosen, he may also be joined by one of his Saints teammates, with teenage left back Luke Shaw in contention for a place.

Shaw’s performances for his club led to him being called up for the last two under-21 squads, although he had to pull out of each with injury.

But, despite still not having featured for the side, Pearce confirmed after England’s final warm-up match that the 17-year-old remains in his thoughts.

“Without a doubt. I think he’s been playing particularly well in the Premier League,” he said.

“Anyone playing in the Premier League at this moment in time we will take very seriously.

“Him for one, let’s say, is always on our radar, and I don’t think we’ve closed the door on anybody.”

England will start their campaign against Italy, in Tel Aviv, on June 5. That will be followed by the remaining group games, against Norway and Israel.

There are also other Saints youngsters set to represent England this summer.

Midfielder Calum Chambers and defender Jordan Turnbull are already in the under-19 squad for this month’s Euro Elite Qualifying Round, as Noel Blake’s side bid to reach July’s finals in Lithuania.

Midfielder James Ward-Prowse should also be involved at some level, possibly in the Under-20 World Cup.