Photo: Reuters

Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley was handed a surprise call-up to the England national team after a very long period of absence with the Three Lions.

Barkley suffered last season as a hamstring injury kept him out for eight months, and he could barely get a chance under former boss Antonio Conte after his return.

However, the 24-year-old is having a good season at Stamford Bridge and is playing really well as he has been a key part of Maurizio Sarri’s team.

Barkley came on as a second-half substitute in the 1-0 win over Hungarian side MOL Vidi FC in the Europa League, and Sarri revealed his excitement for Barkley after his call-up.

Sarri told the media: “I am very happy for him. He had a very serious injury last season.

“Now he is recovering very well and he is improving match by match.

“He can have a very important future in this club and with the national team.”

There was also a shock call-up for Chelsea youngster Mason Mount who’s currently having an incredible season on loan with Derby County in the Championship.

Speaking on why he called up Mount, Southgate said: “Mason has created more chances than anyone in the Championship. He’s trained with us before.”

Ruben Loftus-Cheek missed out on a national team call-up having just returned from injury, and the 22-year-old was one of Chelsea’s best players on the pitch against Vidi before being taken off in the second half.

Sarri was asked is Loftus-Cheek will feature again in Sunday’s game against Southampton.

Sarri replied: “I have to see the physical condition of the player and to see his recovery.”