Newcastle United haven't had players who have made it into the England squad since Andros Townsend in 2016 but since the arrival of Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier, the St James' Park curse on English players has been lifted.

Both Trippier and Pope are set to be almost certain contenders to make it into Gareth Southgate's final draft of his squad before heading to Qatar in a few weeks for the World Cup, however, thanks to the phenomenal form and performances under Eddie Howe over the last 12 months there could be some more Magpies that will get the golden opportunity to feature.

Callum Wilson is the third most in-form English striker right now and there has been plenty of conversation surrounding his inclusion in the England manager's squad later this month, but he isn't the only wildcard Southgate could play when the squad files onto the plane.

On Wednesday night, England regular Ben Chilwell sustained a hamstring injury in the final minutes of Chelsea's clash with Dinamo Zagreb and reports are suggesting that the talented left-back could now miss out on his chance to join the team for the prestigious international competition.

As a result, it has opened up the topic of who could replace him in the team and there is an argument to suggest that Newcastle's Dan Burn could be a latecomer to get a shot at replacing the Stamford Bridge star.

The 6 foot 5 ace - who was dubbed an "underrated" asset by talkSPORT's Tony Cascerino - signed for the northeast club in January for £13m and played a key role in the centre-back position to help Newcastle climb to safety in the Premier League.

Since then, Burn has been worth his weight in gold to the Magpies and has been occupying the left-back role in the team, keeping his position's more experienced player Matt Targett out of the team due to his outstanding performances on the left flank.

Over 13 appearances, the 30-year-old has a pass completion rate of 88% in his own half and has won the majority of his duels (57%), as well as averaging 2.9 clearances, 1.3 tackles and one interception per game, proving that he is reliable and solid in his position.

Southgate was in attendance at St James' Park to witness Newcastle's 4-0 thrashing over Aston Villa last weekend, and it will be difficult for the England manager to ignore how consistent and influential in the backline Burn has been.

The Newcastle defender could be at a great advantage in earning a chance with his country as the 52-year-old manager is renowned for playing defensively and deploying full-backs who remain disciplined in their defensive roles in a more careful approach to games.

Burn also offers Southgate versatility in terms of his experience and attributes in the centre-back role too, giving England a player who can cover more than one position with ease.

With that being said, it would be a huge opportunity for Burn if he was called upon to represent his country at the World Cup and Southgate should not ignore the qualities and impeccable form that the defender could offer England over the tournament.