Everton summer signing Ben Godfrey has revealed the extent of his ambitions, signalling his desire to become a regular face in the Toffees’ starting XI with a view to receiving an England call-up.
The centre-back, who signed on deadline day, spoke exclusively to the York Press about his future desires and career ambitions. The 22-year-old has already featured at England under-21 level, having been capped five times for the Young Lions.
Godfrey will not be short of mentoring figures around him on Merseyside. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is a veteran of the game, whilst experienced figures such as club captain Seamus Coleman have plenty of defensive acumen and good leadership traits which can help the young Everton defender in his development.
Godfrey was open about his ambitions for his bright future in football, telling the York Press:
“I want to be a regular in Everton’s team.
“It’s every English footballer’s dream to represent the country at senior level. I’m fortunate enough to do it at the under-21 level.
“It’s a great time to be a part of it because there’s actually a pathway now for young players into that senior team. If you find yourself playing well regularly in the Premier League for Everton, there is a chance you could get that call-up, and that’s what I will continue to work towards.
“It’s already a proud moment for me and my family to represent the England Under-21s but to go that bit further for the seniors would be massive.”
Godfrey is joined by a host of senior England internationals at Everton, including two fellow Yorkshiremen – Sheffield native Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored twice in three starts for England, whilst Bradford-born Fabian Delph is an experienced figure of the Three Lions’ setup with 20 caps.
“We’ve got a good Yorkshire five-a-side team,” Godfrey joked before turning his attention to how his teammates improve his game.
“These are boys who have represented Everton a lot more times than myself so there are bits and pieces I can take. They’re great lads as well and I’m so appreciative of them being so welcoming.
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Godfrey’s ambitious personality shows a strong hunger and desire to improve which should serve him and his club well.
His fire and spirit will serve as a powerful motivator to compete for places and thus raise the performances of the team as a whole. Godfrey also appears to be settling in well and building a good rapport with his teammates – a crucial necessity if he is to push on in his career.
