Jonjo Shelvey: 'I can fill England's Steven Gerrard gap'

Jonjo Shelvey has claimed that he can fill the void that Steven Gerrard's international retirement has left in the England side.

The ex-Liverpool captain, who now plays for Los Angeles Galaxy in the MLS, stepped down from the national side after the 2014 World Cup having amassed over 100 caps, and Swansea City midfielder Shelvey has backed himself to seize his chance.

Shelvey told reporters: "My game is based on passing. When Stevie Gerrard left, it left a big gap with the range of passing in England's midfield.

"There are some great players, Michael Carrick's passing is superb. He's always looking to pass the ball forward and I do that as well.

"I always try to pass it forward - and I feel England need that."

Shelvey, who was called up to the recent England squad, will win his second cap if he is selected against San Marino on Saturday.