James Tarkowski believes he is getting back to his best as he targets a place in the next England squad.

The defender impressed in Burnley’s eight game unbeaten run although three successive defeats mean the Clarets remain in a relegation battle ahead of the weekend visit of Leicester City.

Tarkowski was on standby for England ahead of last summer’s World Cup but pulled out to undergo a hernia operation.

The 26-year-old admitted it took him a bit of time to find his feet again this season but feels he is now beginning to hit the heights he reached last term.

“When I had surgery and came back initially I had a bit of fitness to get back as I had missed a bit of training before that and it took a bit of time,” said the centre back.

“I wasn’t always pleased with my performances but I just feel comfortable out there now. I’m enjoying being part of the team and working hard and getting the rewards for it.”

Tarkowski shone in Burnley’s 2-1 win over Spurs at Turf Moor in front of watching England manager Gareth Southgate and hopes to put himself in contention for a place in the next Three Lions squad, announced on Wednesday, ahead of games against the Czech Republic and Montenegro later this month.

“Of course. I’d be more than happy to turn up for my country if called up,” the Burnley man, who has two caps, said of a potential England recall.

“I feel like I am getting back to where I want to be and performing at a level where I need to be so if the call comes I will happily go.

“But right now I am just happy playing for Burnley, feeling fit and enjoying my football.”