Tarky out of the shop window

PRESSING MATTERS: WHEN the England under-21s squad is announced next week, don’t expect James Tarkowski to be included.

The 20 year old is now a seasoned player at this level after 68 league and cup games.

Manchester United, Stoke and Newcastle are among the many clubs who have flocked to watch him.

He has been outstanding in 2013-14 and it is no wonder the scouts are coming to see him play. Tarkowski deserves a call-up, but as long as he is an Athletic player, his face probably won’t fit.

He has competition for a place at centre-back in Gareth Southgate’s under-21s squad. Manchester United’s Michael Keane, Eric Dier of Sporting Lisbon and Chelsea man Nathaniel Chalobah are among those who stand in his way.

Even so, not to have had a sniff of a friendly outing is a shame for both player and club.

A move to the Premier League would almost guarantee Tarkowski international recognition immediately.

But judging by others who have made a similar move, he would also fade into the background, fed on a diet of pseudo-competitive academy matches.

Staying put won’t be better for his pocket, his international ambitions nor Athletic’s coffers.

In purely footballing terms, Tarkowski’s development is best served continuing to play first-team football.

And goodness knows, after the defending at Notts County in Tarkowski’s absence, Athletic need him badly.