European U21 Championship: Luke Shaw happy to play for England U21s in finals next summer

Luke Shaw would welcome the opportunity to play for England Under-21s in next summer's European U21 Championship.

The Manchester United defender was a member of the World Cup squad this summer, but has been allowed to link up with the U21s for the crunch play-off against Croatia.

If they win the tie, Gareth Southgate's squad will qualify for the tournament in the Czech Republic, and senior boss Roy Hodgson has suggested he would be happy for some players to gain more experience of competition football.

Shaw, along with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ross Barkley and Jack Wilshere will still be eligible for the U21s and the left-back is happy to compete at that level.

I've had a little discussion about it with Gareth Southgate but nothing too big. I'm away with them for the next couple of weeks and we can get to talk about it properly then.

"Yes, of course," he said. "I always want to help out my country and I know there are few other lads who can also drop down as well that summer.

"I've had a little discussion about it with Gareth Southgate but nothing too big. I'm away with them for the next couple of weeks and we can get to talk about it properly then."

Shaw’s selection for the U21s was greeted with some surprise, especially with two full internationals scheduled for this week against San Marino and Estonia.

But the 19-year-old revealed how Hodgson explained the decision not to pick him for the qualifying double-header.

"Roy rang me the week before it came out and told me it wasn't a punishment," Shaw said.

"He wants me to help out the Under-21s. It's not just me. Saido Berahino is in the Under-21s but he might have got a senior call-up.

"We're all happy to help. It's always been a privilege to play for my country, no matter what level it is and I will do it and do my best."