St Mary’s is in pole position to host an England international 17 years after they last played host to the Three Lions.

Gareth Southgate’s team are expected to return to Southampton to face Kosovo in a Euro 2020 qualifier on September 10 after the FA confirmed the game will not be staged at Wembley.

St Mary’s had its one and thus far only England international in October 2002, which resulted in a disappointing 2-2 draw with Macedonia with David Beckham and Steven Gerrard scoring.

In the interim St Mary’s has hosted three England under-21 matches and an England Women’s fixture.

Saints and The FA are understood to be waiting on approval from UEFA before making a formal announcement.

If the match does get the nod then it will be a major coup for Saints.

The Group A fixture will be the first competitive game England will have played away from Wembley since Old Trafford hosted a qualifier against Macedonia in October 2006.

It is part of the The FA’s plans to try and take the England team on the road again following the success of touring them around the country while Wembley was being rebuilt.

England played two games away from Wembley last year with friendlies at Elland Road and the King Power Stadium.

The match could be a particularly exciting opportunity for James Ward-Prowse.

The Saints midfielder is in fine form for his club and won his second senior cap in the win over Montenegro just over a week ago.

His inclusion in the squad for a hometown match would only heighten the excitement.

Wayne Bridge provided the local interest back in 2002 as the Southampton born left back started the match under the guidance of Sven-Goran Eriksson.

England would be heavy favourites for the game against Kosovo.

After the first two Group A fixtures they sit top of the table with six points. Kosovo have played one match and picked up a draw.