Young Lions Berahino and Chambers chosen in Under-21 squad

In-form Ings has struck nine goals in 26 top-flight appearances this term to give the Clarets a fighting chance of avoiding relegation to the Championship, although his exploits have not warranted him a place in Hodgson’s first-team, with Harry Kane expectedly sealing his first ever call-up instead.

Sean Dyche’s men are even-money to secure their top-flight status this year, with Ings set to play a vital role in that bid to beat the drop.

Southampton duo James Ward-Prowse and Matt Targett have been rewarded for their regular action in the top-flight this season with call-ups as well. Saints star Ward-Prowse returns to the squad after injury-stricken spells last year, while teammate Targett gains his maiden selection.

As well as defensive options being strengthened, Manchester United’s loaned-out attacker Jesse Lingard is back in the fold after missing out through a troublesome injury last year, with a loan switch to Derby County working wonders for the Old Trafford prospect.

The squad are set to meet up soon ahead of the Czech Republic clash on March 27 and an anticipated Germany encounter on March 30.

Southgate will lead his Under-21 side out for their first European Championship game on June 18, as they hope to progress from Group B, which includes Portugal, Italy and Sweden.

Full squad list: Marcus Bettinelli (Fulham), Jonathan Bond (Watford), Jack Butland (Stoke City), Calum Chambers (Arsenal), Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Luke Garbutt (Everton), Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough), Carl Jenkinson (West Ham United – loan from Arsenal), Michael Keane (Burnley), Liam Moore (Brentford – loan from Leicester City), John Stones (Everton), Matt Targett (Southampton), Tom Carroll (Swansea City – loan from Tottenham Hotspur), Nathaniel Chalobah (Reading – loan from Chelsea), Jake Forster-Caskey (Brighton and Hove Albion), Will Hughes (Derby County), Jesse Lingard (Derby County – loan from Manchester United), Alex Pritchard (Brentford – loan from Tottenham Hotspur), Nathan Redmond (Norwich City), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton), Patrick Bamford (Middlesbrough – loan from Chelsea), Saido Berahino (West Bromwich Albion), Danny Ings (Burnley), Callum Wilson (AFC Bournemouth).