Leeds United midfielder Jonny Howson has been called into the England under-21 squad for Tuesday's game against Italy in Empoli.

The 22-year-old has won his first call-up for the under-21s after a string of impressive performances in the Championship for United.

United manager Simon Grayson said: "I'm delighted for Jonny. He's been terrific for us this season and this is a great reward for him.

"People forget he's still a young player when you look at the games he's played and the fact he's been captaining the side, but he's a great professional, a real hard worker, and he's a real talent.

"He fully deserves his call and it will be a great experience for him."

Fabian Delph was the club's most recent representative in the under-21 squad, back in 2008.

England's game against Italy can be viewed live on FATV at www.TheFA.com<http://www.thefa.com/