Gareth Southgate sends England message to Man City youngster Rico Lewis

Gareth Southgate is keeping a close eye on Rico Lewis but believes the Manchester City star will develop best at under-21 level for England.

Southgate confirmed his 25-man squad for the November international break, which kicks off after City's trip to Chelsea on Sunday. The Three Lions have two Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia to look forward to.

Four Blues will join up with the squad in the form of Kyle Walker, Kalvin Phillips, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish. But Lewis is also staking his claim for a first-ever senior call-up after an excellent start to the season at the Etihad.

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The 18-year-old was instead named in Lee Carsley's under-21s squad and Southgate is happy to let the teenager play regularly and develop at that level.

"I think he is developing really well, he is very comfortable with the ball, but he plays in a very specific role for Manchester City," Southgate told the BBC. "[They are] sort of playing him as a high eight and he fits into their system brilliantly.

"I think internationally, at the moment, his development at this moment in time is best served with the under-21s. But without doubt we are watching him, plus the likes of Cole Palmer and [Newcastle defender] Tino Livramento in particular."

Lewis is one of five young City stars, some of which are on loan, in the England under-21 squad. The teenager joins Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Josh Wilson-Esbrand, James McAtee and Liam Delap in joining up with the Young Lions over the next fortnight.

Carsley's side also have two European Championship qualifiers to look forward to