Lewis Dunk says Albion’s challenges in the Europa League will help him at Euro 2024.

The Albion defender is with the squad in Germany and could make his competitive international debut over the coming weeks.

But he was quick to point out he is vastly experienced with his club – including matches on an international stage.

Dunk said: “Of course, this was probably my last chance of getting to a tournament realistically.

“Being out of the squad for a long time after my debut I probably thought it was over then. I got back in and now I am here enjoying the moment.

“It has been exciting. It is new to me obviously but it is exciting times. Base camp has been brilliant, the boys have settled in well and trained well for the last two days.

“Just because I’ve not been to a tournament doesn’t mean I’m not experienced in football. I’ve played 450 games.

“I’ve probably come up against every scenario in football. Obviously this tournament is on a bigger magnitude.

“I think the Europa League would have helped me a lot with that, playing against the European teams and coming up against different teams.

“I’m just going to bring me to this camp and hopefully I’m there when called upon to help the squad.”

John Stones missed training in Germany on Wednesday through illness.

He is likely to be available for the Group C opener against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday but Dunk is ready and waiting to step in if required.

“I would hope so, of course,” he said about being on standby to start if Stones does not make it.

“But you never know. There are a few days until Sunday and we’ll see what happens. I’m not here just for a holiday!

“I’m here to play games and win matches and hopefully we can take the trophy home. That’s what I’m here for.”

Stones returned to Southgate’s squad on Thursday, with all 26 players training at their Blankenhain base.

Luke Shaw has trained all week as he recovers from hamstring issues that have laid him low since mid-February.