Tottenham midfielder Harry Winks has confirmed that he is set to hold talks with manager Mauricio Pochettino towards the end of the season to discuss his plans for next summer as he faces an international dilemma.
The young Spurs talent has established himself as a first team selection for both club and country over the past 18 months but is also eligible to play for the England under-21 side at the 2019 European Championships, having taken part in their qualifying campaign.
With a decision to make over whether to remain with the senior Three Lions squad or drop back down, a confused Winks has confirmed he will talk to Pochettino about what he should do.
He told the London Evening Standard: “Ultimately, the main goal is to play for the senior side.
“I haven’t spoken to him [Pochettino] about it yet. I expect that will happen towards the end of the season. After being involved in the Spain win, I just want more of it.”
Opinion
Winks has been a huge revelation in both north London and on the national stage and if he continues to perform at the high levels he has been then there is no reason he would not pick up more caps for England. Of course, the Three Lions are not in any major competitions this coming summer, whereas the under-21s are, and so his decision is does he want to sacrifice action for Gareth Southgate’s men to have a shot at glory? Pochettino’s advice will help him, with his club boss able to discuss his performances for the Lilywhites, as well as the risk of burnout, but at the end of the day it is Winks’ decision. Important competitions do not come round every year and this could be the perfect chance for him to bow out of under-21 football. His qualities would give the young lions a huge boost in their hopes of glory and you can be certain his teammates at that level will be hoping he joins them for one last hurrah.