A nightmare week had a happy ending for Dan Harding yesterday after

the Albion left-back was named in Peter Taylor's squad for the European Under-21 Championship qualifiers.

The first game is in Austria on September 3, followed by a match against Poland four days later.

It is the second time Harding has been picked for the under-21s following his debut in the friendly against Ukraine at Middlesbrough last Tuesday.

It has been a roller-coaster season for the young defender.

He was at fault when Seagulls conceded their second goal in the shock 2-1 Carling Cup defeat against League Two Bristol Rovers at Withdean three days ago.

He was sent off against Plymouth and conceded a penalty during the opening day defeat at Reading.

Harding said: "It is ironic how things work out. I was having a bad week with my part in Rovers' second goal but now this. I can't believe my week has been turned around again by England.

"I'm feeling fantastic about the prospect of making my competitive debut for my country. When I got on against Ukraine I was shaking my head in disbelief but it gave me a real confidence-boost. When I got on for the second half it was wonderful.

"This time I'm in the squad for the real thing and that has increased my confidence again. It just shows what can happen if you keep trying. I'll be in the same squad as Arsenal's Jermaine Pennant, James Milner, who is at Newcastle, and Carlton Cole, who is doing well at Villa.

"I'll be able to see how these players go about their business first hand."

Harding wants to learn and emulate England's senior left-back Ashley Cole. He said: "Ashley has everything. He is strong, quick in the tackle, reads a game well and gets up and down. He bombs around but makes it look easy.

"I know I can improve all aspects of my game, like getting forward more to supply crosses so Leon (Knight) can get his goals.

"The game has evolved. Left-backs don't just defend any more, they attack and they've helped make the game more exciting and I am trying to be a part of that."

Harding, who is set to sign a two-year extension to his contract which would take him to 2006, hopes his England selection will lift Albion spirits after a disappointing start to the season.

He said: "I hope it has given everyone a lift. I love it at Albion and I want the best for everyone at the club. We've got a special spirit."

Manager Mark McGhee believes Harding's England inclusion is another reason for the club to move to Falmer.

He said: "We need it to keep boys like Dan. If we're going to produce players to play at that level we need a proper venue. Withdean's not the place. Dan is going to go off now and play in all sorts of exotic stadia and he's going to want to play at those sort of places more."