Danny Ings insists he hasn’t given up on his England dream.

The £16m deadline day signing has hit the ground since joining Saints, netting two goals already and quickly establishing himself as a fan favourite.

Ings has won one solitary England cap so far in a 2015 European qualifier against Lithuania when Roy Hodgson was in charge.

However, he was often also picked for England under-21s when Gareth Southgate was manager.

Though Ings knows he has a bit to do to climb back to international level after a couple of injury hit years, he hasn’t given up hope.

He said: “A run of games under my belt is the first thing really but it’s in the back of my mind.

“I would never give up on that dream having tasted it but for now I just want to play as many games as I can.

“There’s so much talent in this country. It’s a huge challenge but I’m never going to give up on it.”

Ings could barely have asked to get his dream move to his boyhood club to get off to a better opening and he is understandably delighted.

“It’s a good start,” he smiled. “It’s always a worry when you come to a new club but I got it in early and I’ve just got to build on that and keep scoring now.

“I enjoyed my time at Liverpool. I did. I travelled with the team to the Champions League final. I played in the Champions League. It was great experience for me, but coming here to play most weeks is enjoyable in itself so I’m happy.

“I could have left two three or windows before but I stuck at it, gave myself the best chance at Liverpool. I love the club, I love the fans.

“It’s just time for me to go and enjoy myself now.

“I still have ambition to score goals in the Premier League and I’m just going to go for it now.”

Ings confessed he has a bet with former Liverpool teammate Mo Salah on who will score the most goals this season, but is adamant he hasn’t set himself any particular number to hit.

“I don’t have a target. I don’t want to limit myself on what I can achieve,” said the 26-year-old.

“As long as we’re winning I’m happy.”