AFC Bournemouth defender James Hill earns first England call-up

AFC Bournemouth defender James Hill has received his first England call up from Thomas Tuchel after an impressive start to the season.

The 24-year-old centre back has been called up to the squad for the Three Lions’ games against Croatia and Spain in the Nations League.

England play Croatia at Wembley on Thursday before travelling to Madrid to take on Spain on Sunday.

Hill has been instrumental in the Cherries strong start to the season with the club on an eight-game winning run playing every minute while only conceding two goals. 

An AFC Bournemouth club spokesperson said: “Everyone at AFC Bournemouth would like to congratulate James on his call up and wishes him the best of luck over the next week.”

Hill has also appeared at England’s youth side playing for under-20s and under-21s, impressing for both squads.

This comes after Ezri Konsa has withdrawn from England duty after picking up an injury in Arsenal’s Champions League win against Slavia Prague last week.

Hill’s journey towards the England squad started at Fleetwood Town where he joined the academy at age 14 and made his first professional appearance at 16.  

His first club has also commented on Hill receiving his first call up saying: “Everyone at Fleetwood Town is incredibly proud to see James receive his first senior England call-up. 

“To see him continue developing at the highest level and now earn recognition with England is a fantastic achievement for James, his family and everyone who played a part in his journey at Fleetwood.”

Hill’s impressive performances at Fleetwood Town earned him a move to Bournemouth in January 2022 where he continued his development.

After struggling to get first team football, the club decided to send him on loan to Blackburn Rovers and Hearts of Midlothian during 2023 and 2024 to guarantee him minutes on the pitch.

His outstanding form started in late 2025 as he dislodged Bafode Diakite in the back line and created a formidable partnership with the now departed Marcos Senesi at the back.

The Englishman has started every Premier League game for the club in 2026 as the Cherries reached Europa League after finishing sixth in the league.

His impressive form has continued into this season as Cherries climbed the table to seventh and winning every game in the Europa League campaign.