Ben Gibson is desperate to prove his worth with England and repay the faith shown in him by boyhood idol Gareth Southgate.
Middlesbrough's Premier League return did not go to plan last term, but their captain shone brightly as they meekly slipped back into the second tier.
Gibson flourished in Boro's backline, leading both to admiring glances from other top-flight clubs and a maiden senior England call-up.
The 24-year-old was drafted in midway through March's meet-up and is now hoping to make his debut, having been called up for Saturday's World Cup qualifier in Scotland and friendly in France.