Brighton defender Lewis Dunk is set to receive a first call-up to the England squad ahead of the Nations League double-header against Croatia and Spain, Press Association Sport understands.

The 26-year-old signed a new contract with the Seagulls last week and looks set to toast that landmark with a place in Gareth Southgate’s latest squad.

Although he was not included in the initial list announced by Southgate on Thursday, Dunk is expected to take the place of Burnley’s James Tarkowski, who is an injury doubt.

The Three Lions take on Croatia, who beat them in the World Cup semi-finals during the summer, in Rijeka on Friday before facing Spain in Seville three days later.

It is understood Dunk will join fellow new call-ups Jadon Sancho, Mason Mount and James Maddison at St George’s Park this week as Southgate rewards the centre-back for a fine start to the season at Brighton.