Ryan Shawcross deserves more England caps, says Mark Hughes
Thursday 12 November 2015 12:06, UK
Stoke City manager Mark Hughes says he is baffled as to why Ryan Shawcross is continually overlooked by England manager Roy Hodgson.
England face Spain in Alicante on Friday before playing France at Wembley four days later and Shawcross, who has returned to action following a back injury, has again been left out of the squad.
Hodgson has selected Manchester United pair Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, Chelsea's Gary Cahill and John Stones of Everton as his four central defenders for the two friendly matches.
Shawcross' lone cap for England came in a friendly against Sweden in 2012 and Hughes cannot understand why Hodgson has not used the Potters captain since.
"Why he isn't involved at England level, once again I have no idea," Hughes said.
"OK, they may look at the fact and say that he hasn't played enough football this season because of his injury, but even before that when he was performing exceptionally well he wasn't getting a look-in.
"Since I've been here, he's been absolutely outstanding. There aren't many defenders like him in the game, I have to say.
"Obviously Jack Butland is involved in the England set-up, so maybe he will be able to put in a good word for him and he'll be involved in the next one. Don't hold your breath, mind."
