Arthur reflects on his experience with England U18s earlier this month.
Peterborough United U18s defender Benjamin Arthur featured in all three games for England U18s in the International Tournament of Lisbon, with hosts Portugal walking away with the trophy.
Arthur started in their opening game against Norway and was substituted in the 70th minute as England fought back to draw 2-2 in their opening game. The defender then featured for 30 minutes in their 3-2 victory over Australia before playing 85 minutes in the goalless draw to Portugal.
The defender, who was a regular for the under 18s last season, helping them to two pieces of silverware during the campaign, was delighted to have received the opportunity and reflected on the experience.
“It was a great feeling and a really proud moment to have received the call-up. I was buzzing with the opportunity I was given and hopefully, I did myself justice where I can be in contention for the next one.
“The overall experience was brilliant. The players and the staff were very welcoming and made me settle in easily, there was a different style of play and pace to the games that I’ve been used to, but I feel like I adjusted well and gave a good account of myself."
Arthur was the only player outside the top two divisions that had been selected for the squad and the defender said putting on the England shirt was one of his proudest moments to date.
“There were so many positives to take from camp, but for me the best part was making my debut, putting on the England shirt and seeing my family in the stands that came out to support me was one of my proudest achievements so far.
“We only had one or two training days before our first game, so it was challenging to get to know the team ahead of that but I thought we all did exceptionally well and were unfortunate not to win the tournament in the end. Hopefully, there will be many more camps to come, but it was a fantastic experience, so I will just need to keep on working hard and doing the right things to give myself a chance to be in the next squad."
- Benjamin Arthur is pictured (back row, second left) with his England team-mates.