Newcastle United striker Sammy Ameobi is thrilled with his first call-up to the England U21 squad.

He said he was still in a state of shock after being told of his call-up following training yesterday.

Ameobi told The Journal: "I've always wanted to represent my country, so to get the opportunity is an excellent thing and I won't take it for granted if I get a chance to play.

"I'd heard a few people say that Stuart Pearce was looking at me but I had no idea that I would be in the squad. I just got told after training on Monday. I was told 'you're in the squad' - that's how I found out.

"Then I had to rush home and get everything packed!

"It's been a good time for me. Getting the opportunity to play for Newcastle and show what I can do means I'm getting noticed a lot more, which is good. Hopefully if I keep on doing what I doing, I'll keep getting opportunities to play."

The promise of a senior call - and besting his older brother - are clear motivating factors for the young forward.

"He's played for England under-21s so I'm glad I've got the opportunity to do so as well," he said. "And hopefully I can go even further than he has."