Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall responded to being left out of England's squad by helping his club Everton to a 3-1 comeback victory over Coventry City in the Premier League on Friday.
Dewsbury-Hall was not named in the squad for this month's Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain, with England boss Thomas Tuchel saying that the Everton midfielder had been close to making the cut.
A few hours after the squad was announced, Dewsbury-Hall scored to round off Everton's win and add to teammate Thierno Barry's two goals.
"It was a disappointing morning, I'm not going to lie. It's a massive dream of mine to play for my country. I know I was close," the 28-year-old told Sky Sports after the home win.
"(I'm) sad, yeah, but really proud of myself and the way I have reacted. All I can keep doing is putting in good performances and hopefully one day I get the nod, because I'm never going to give up.
"I've got the mentality. I'll keep pushing and pushing and see what happens."
England, second in Nations League Group C, host Croatia at Wembley on November 12 before travelling to Madrid to face Spain three days later.
Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja disputes findings in 2018 ball-tampering probe
India's Shami keeps white-ball focus after ending Test career
'Brotherly Love', 'Colour Up' light up Dubai Racing Carnival opening night
Norris fastest in Sao Paulo practice as champion Antonelli returns to action
Rahm and Hatton join Laporta at Abu Dhabi summit
