Chris Hughton urges Grant Holt not to give up on England

Norwich City manager Chris Hughton has encouraged Grant Holt not to give up on being selected for England.

The striker scored 15 goals in the Premier League last season but his contribution was not deemed to be enough by manager Roy Hodgson for a place in his squad for Euro 2012.

Holt has struggled to replicate that form so far this campaign, netting just twice for the Canaries.

Nevertheless, Hughton believes that there is still time for Holt to force his way into Hodgson's plans.

"I think he has been unlucky," said Hughton. "Players brought into the squad of late have been scoring goals, which is why I was delighted for him to score last week. Right now things might look like they are on a downer for him but things can change. It is a long, hard season.

"He certainly shouldn't give up hope. Not in this game. Grant can't do himself any harm if he scores goals so I was delighted that he scored his second one.

"I hope that's him up and running now and any claim that he might have to get in England squads will be a result of him scoring goals and scoring goals like he did last season."

Holt has never represented England at youth level.