Everton boss Sam Allardyce: 'Michael Keane can still make World Cup'

Everton boss Sam Allardyce has admitted that Michael Keane will have to rediscover his best form in order to make England's World Cup squad.

Keane has made four appearances for the Three Lions since making his debut last March, but the 25-year-old did not feature in Gareth Southgate's squad for the friendlies with the Netherlands and Italy.

Allardyce has acknowledged that the centre-back is now an outsider for a spot on the plane to Russia, but insists that the summer signing can still force his way into Southgate's plans.

At a press conference, the 63-year-old told reporters: "A World Cup place depends how we play as a team. If he continues to grow, as he has done recently, there's a chance. He has to be at his best for Everton to attract the attention of Gareth.

"He's been helped by the return of [Phil] Jagielka, [Seamus] Coleman and [Leighton] Baines. When you get your best players back you're going to improve. As much as Jonjoe [Kenny] and Cuco [Martina] did a fantastic job, the balance of Seamus and Leighton, their passing ratio, their qualities, they have better experience."

Keane has made 27 appearances during his first season at Goodison Park.