LONDON (AP) — Manchester United’s teenage striker Marcus Rashford has been included in England’s provisional 26-man squad ahead of the European Championship.

The 18-year-old, who made his debut for United in February, was one of five strikers selected by Roy Hodgson, the England coach, this morning in an enlarged group for warm-up matches against Turkey, Australia and Portugal, before the tournament in France.

Rashford will compete alongside Jamie Vardy, Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney and Daniel Sturridge for a place in the final squad.

“Marcus Rashford is one of the contenders,” Hodgson said.

“Competition is strong and he deserves to be selected for the main squad, but I am pleased someone who has had an outstanding end to the season has a great future. He will have the chance to knock someone off their perch.”

Andros Townsend, the Newcastle United winger, was called up after finishing the Premier League season well despite his side being relegated. Jack Wilshere and Jordan Henderson were also picked after recently making their returns after injuries.

Theo Walcott, the Arsenal winger, was left out after failing to start a match for his club since February.

The squad will be trimmed to 23 players by May 31.