Aston Villa veteran Ashley Young was happy making England's preliminary World Cup list.

The 39-cap star is sticking to his word after confirming to Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate four years ago he would always be available.

Ex-Manchester United wing-back Young said: “After the tournament I said to Gareth, 'I will never rule myself out playing. I know you will go with younger players and I totally agree.

“I am not retiring so if you ever need me, if you ever want to recall me, you can do, as long as I am playing well. It is down to you'."

Young was a surprise inclusion in Southgate's long-list of players for Qatar 2022 in recent weeks, although he was never a serious contender to make the final 26.

But he told The Sun: “To get in this 55 for Qatar shows you I must have been doing something right.

“I was joking with someone from the FA who messaged me about the squad. I was like 'This has to be a joke, surely?'

“I will retire from international football when I retire from football. I can still play at the highest level.

“I always say to players, just never give up on your dream — I never gave up."