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Ashley Young believes his versatility can help England and Manchester United

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Ashley Young says he is happy to be back in the England squad and has credited Jose Mourinho with his recent return to form

Manchester United full-back Ashley Young is hoping his versatility can impress England boss Gareth Southgate ahead of the World Cup in Russia.

Young was included in Southgate's 27-man squad for the upcoming friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy after making the left-back role his own at Old Trafford.

The 32-year-old is on course for his most prolific campaign at United after making 29 appearances this season, and the former Watford and Aston Villa winger believes his versatility could prove to be useful when England head to Russia this summer.

during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford on November 25, 2017 in Manchester, England.
Image: Young has been called up by England for the games against the Netherlands and Italy

"Nowadays you have players that are versatile and I feel like I'm one of them," said Young. "I've played in numerous positions and I think if you have a good footballing brain then you're able to adapt.

"I think I've shown this season that I can adapt and play well in those positions. Whenever a manager calls on me I go out and give 100 per cent and play as well as I can."

Young has now been included in Southgate's last two England squads and the defender insists he feels at home with his international team-mates.

Ashley Young scores his second goal from a free kick
Image: Young has impressed in a defensive role this season

"I felt comfortable as soon as I walked back through the door," he said. "The boys here are fantastic, the players, the staff - everybody mingles together, so it is easy to come back into the squad and I'm delighted to be back."

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Manchester United opted to trigger a one-year extension to Young's contract on Monday and the defender says he is "delighted" to remain with the Red Devils beyond of the end of the current campaign.

"They've taken up that option and I'm delighted to be there for another season," he said. "It is a fantastic place to be at and hopefully we can do more than we have this season."

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