Thomas has been in superb form this season, helping the Addicks to one of their best starts to a Premiership season and he is determined to take his chance.

"It's nice to know that my progress is still being monitored by the England people," said Thomas. 

"I'm really pleased to be picked. I have been involved with England from U17 through to U20 level, and I thought the U21s would be a natural progression, but at the time I was playing for Arsenal reserves and the U21s was basically only for players playing first-team football.

"So in that sense it's a little bit late coming but I'm still delighted because it's better late than never."

Thomas admitted his call-up was unexpected and that he was planned a break during the international week.

"I was planning to have a couple of days away during the international break but I'll have to cancel that now," added Thomas. 

"Another good thing is that I'll be able to keep myself ticking over with a couple of games during the break.

"My form is good at the moment and now I'll have the opportunity to keep myself sharp."

England's games are the final two in the qualifying group and they know that only the best will do if they are to secure themselves top spot and a favourable draw in November's final play-offs.