Harry Winks admits missing out on England’s squad for Nations League Finals was difficult

The midfielder was also absent from last summer’s World Cup due to injury

Harry Winks has admitted that missing out on England’s Nations League Finals squad was “difficult” to accept.

The Tottenham midfielder returned to Gareth Southgate’s squad for this month’s European Championship qualifiers but missed out on England’s efforts in Portugal despite recovering from an operation in time to start the Champions League final.

Winks was also absent from last summer’s World Cup due to injury.

“To miss out of the Nations League was difficult,” he said on Wednesday. ”But that’s football. People make decisions and it’s part and parcel of moving on.

“I spoke to the gaffer the week before the [Champions League] final. He called me and gave me his views.

“I totally respect the gaffer’s decision, I was out for a few weeks after the operation and he had to name the team before the Champions League [squad] was announced, so I totally understand his thinking.”

Winks has started every game for Tottenham in the Premier League so far this season in midfield.

Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino has favoured using the 23-year-old in a deep-lying pivot role.

But with Declan Rice an option in that position for Southgate, and England’s midfield a particularly congested area, Winks says he is happy to play in different roles.

“I’ve grown up all my years through Tottenham playing in various roles. That’s how the academy structures us as midfielders – to be played in various roles and positions.

Harry Winks believes he can play a variety of roles in England’s midfield (Action Images via Reuters)

“Whatever role I get asked to play, I feel I can do it.”

And the prospect of playing in a major tournament that culminates at England’s home ground has not escaped Winks.

“It’s something I’d love to be able to say I’ve done, to be involved in the European Championship, to be there at the end of the season, to play for my country would be a dream come true for me,” the midfielder added.

“Firstly, I’ve got to perform at every level. I’ve got to perform for Tottenham, I’ve got to perform here, if I get opportunities for England. I’ve got to stay fit first and foremost and then we’ll see.”