Friday 20 March 2015 16:34, UK
Mark Hughes says Ryan Shawcross deserves another chance at international level following his most recent England snub.
Shawcross made his only appearance in an England shirt in the 4-2 defeat against Sweden in November 2012, but Hughes says his form warrants at least another look at.
The Stoke boss said Shawcross has been one of the most impressive players at the club during his managerial tenure and should be in Roy Hodgson’s thoughts.
Hughes understands that Hodgson would not necessarily pick him for every international game but he feels it is unfair to completely dismiss Shawcross as an option.
"From our point of view it’s unfortunate for Ryan. I think if he had been fit and well and playing regularly right up to this point I think he must have come into Roy Hodsgon’s thinking," he said.
"He would be crazy not to think that, because up until his injury he was playing arguably as good as he’s ever played in the Stoke shirt.
"It’s unfortunate that he got the injury when he did. We all feel here and I think most people’s opinion outside these vicinities is that he merited another look at, at least that. We’re not saying put him in and play him every international from this point onwards, but certainly he deserves another chance.
"He’s had 20 odd minutes in a difficult situation where he was thrown on and he’s had a lot of criticism thrown his way unfairly in my view. And he hasn’t had a look in since.
"Given what he’s produced, certainly since I have been here, he’s arguably been the star performer in the last 18 months or so. So for him not to have another opportunity since the last time seems a little bit unfair I would suggest. "
