Ben Godfrey has received his first senior England call-up in Gareth Southgate's provisional squad for this summer's European Championship.

The 23-year-old defender has been rewarded for a fine first season with Everton.

Here, the PA news agency gets to know Godfrey.

Schoolboy honours

Born in York, Godfrey showed his talents early by captaining the York and District Schoolboys under-13 team to victory in a major national competition. It was the first time a team from York had won an English Schools' Football Association competition. Godfrey started his career in the Minstermen's youth system. He moved to Middlesbrough and had trials with Leeds before returning to his hometown club, making his first-team debut aged 17.

Sporting heritage

Despite Norwich being relegated straight back to the Championship, Godfrey attracted attention and he joined Everton last October, with the move providing York with a financial lifeline via a sell-on clause. He made his debut later the same month in the Merseyside derby and has excelled ever since despite having to play in various different positions. Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti said: "He was a fantastic signing in the summer."

Superstitions

Godfrey, who has captained England at under-21 level, has a number of pre-match superstitions. The 23-year-old always leaves a water bottle in a specific place as he prepares for a game while he insists on being the fourth player to run out onto the pitch.