Eddie Howe backs Callum Wilson for England

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe has claimed that Callum Wilson deserves to be considered for Gareth Southgate's first England squad.

The interim national team manager will select his squad for the upcoming matches against Malta and Slovenia on Sunday, bringing an end to a turbulent week for English football that saw Sam Allardyce lose his job following a media sting.

Wilson spent the majority of last season sidelined with a serious knee injury, but he has scored twice in six Premier League starts so far this term, including one in the 2-2 draw with Watford at Vicarage Road this afternoon.

"I think he has the ability to get [into the England squad]. From my perspective at the moment it's still making sure he's okay fitness-wise and injury-wise and continues his good form, because he's building some momentum now," Howe told reporters.

Wilson scored five goals in his first seven appearances of last season before suffering an ACL injury.