JAMES Tarkowski is putting thoughts of an England call-up to the back of his mind as he focuses on shining for Burnley in the closing weeks of the season.

The centre back is one of several Burnley players in the frame for a Three Lions call for friendlies with Holland and Italy later this month.

Tarkowski’s performances in the heart of the Clarets defence have seen him linked with a call-up from Gareth Southgate this season. And the 25-year-old could yet find himself at the centre of an international tug-of-war, with Poland also keeping an eye on him as he qualifies for them through his grandfather.

Southgate was at Turf Moor on Saturday for the second weekend in a row, but Tarkowski insists his presence is no surprise given the success Burnley have had this season.

“We’re seventh in the league so there is no surprise that the England manager is here watching players,” he said.

“We’ll have to see what happens over the next couple of weeks. There are plenty of lads in good form at our place so we’ll just have to see what happens.

“Everyone wants to get to a World Cup so it would be a good time to break in to the squad. I’m not too worried about it, I’m happy enough here playing football week in week out. If it comes then obviously I would be delighted to represent my country but I’m just happy to be back out there playing football again.”

Tarkowski’s return from a minor groin injury could yet be well timed, with Burnley playing once more, at West Ham on Saturday, before the international break.

And he’s not the only Claret in contention for a call-up, with Jack Cork hoping to stay in the squad after winning his first cap in November, while Nick Pope and Ben Mee have also been mentioned as potential England candidates.

Matt Lowton could also have played himself into the frame with a fine performance in front of Southgate against Everton.

“He (Lowton) is just one of many who could potentially get a shout,” Tarkowski said.

“Even with the run that we’ve been on, people have been playing well all season. Big Popey has been terrific, Ben (Mee) has been terrific for two or three seasons now, Corky has come here and done really well, Lowts has done well.

“There are so many people out there who could get a shout. You’ve just got to concentrate on your club football for now and if it happens it happens.

“It’s out of your control now, there’s nothing you can do. All you can do is do what you do for your club.

“It’s a decision affected by more than how you’re playing for your club. There are a lot of people out there playing for bigger clubs who are also doing well. You’ve just got to focus on your own job and if he decides to call you up for the squad then so be it.”