Fulham teenager Josh King earns place in England squad

Fulham midfielder Josh King has joined England’s squad for Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain.

The 19-year-old has had an unusual path into football: he attended Hampton School, earned strong GCSE results and studied for A-levels while playing for England’s Under-19s.

King says learning quickly helps him on the pitch, including when he communicates with teammates and takes in instructions.

His breakthrough season last year saw him play in 32 of Fulham’s 38 Premier League matches, and he has started every league game for the club this season.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has considered King in several roles, including on the wings and as a striker, showing his ability to play in different positions.

King was called up for a pre-World Cup camp in Florida earlier this year but did not play in the friendlies; the Croatia and Spain matches are his next chance to make an impression with England.