Express and Star journalist Luke Hatfield has claimed Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa would have been called up to the latest England squad if he were playing for one of the Premier League's six biggest clubs. 

Hatfield further added that Konsa has been Villa's best defender over a consistent period, despite being regularly overlooked by Gareth Southgate. 

What's the latest news involving Ezri Konsa?

Southgate's latest England squad for coming World Cup qualifiers versus Andorra and Hungary was announced last week.

The Three Lions gaffer found room for England centre-back regulars Conor Coady, John Stones and Tyrone Mings, while an injury to Harry Maguire opened up a vacancy within the squad.

That was filled by AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori, but should have arguably gone to Konsa instead. 

Aston Villa boast one of the better goals conceded records in the Premier League this season and Konsa already has a well-established partnership with fellow Villan Mings. 

Konsa also played a key role in Villa keeping the third-most clean sheets of any top flight side last season, having made 35 Premier League starts.

Is Mo Salah now the BEST IN THE WORLD?! Hear what fans are saying on The Football Terrace...

What has Luke Hatfield said about Konsa?

Journalist Hatfield believes Konsa would have received his first England call-up if he were plying his trade for one of the Premier League's elite clubs. 

But as he's currently on the books at Villa Park, Southgate has continued to overlook the former Charlton and Brentford defender. 

When asked whether Konsa would be in the latest England squad if he were playing for one of the Big Six, Hatfield told GIVEMESPORT: "Yeah he would be and it’s a frustrating one for him I’m sure because he’s probably been Villa’s best defender over the past 18 months or two years and he’s been consistently overlooked."

GMS Xbox S giveaway

Enter Giveaway

What position is Ezri Konsa?

Konsa predominantly plays at centre-half, which is why the injury to Maguire seemed like the perfect opportunity to test him at international level - especially considering the modest calibre of England's opponents this month. 

But Konsa is on the short side for a centre-back, measuring in at just six foot, which is perhaps why he's been occasionally used in other positions throughout his career. 

Konsa has also played at right-back and in midfield and that versatility provides another argument for Southgate to include him in his England plans going forward. 

Nonetheless, Konsa's future does seem to rest at centre-half. All but nine of his 76 appearances for Villa have come there and as the 23-year-old gets older, he'll only gain more of the experience necessary to truly master the role.