Southampton's Mauricio Pochettino: 'Jay Rodriguez deserves England chance'

Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino believes that forward Jay Rodriguez has earned his spot in the England squad.

The 24-year-old was named in Roy Hodgson's squad for upcoming friendlies against Chile and Germany.

Rodriguez's teammates Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert were also given places in the set-up following an impressive start to the season for the Saints.

"Jay fully deserves his England call-up," Pochettino said in a press conference. "He's been on a really good run lately. We're really proud of our three players in the England squad.

"Can they go to the World Cup? Why not?. Not only those three, but the squad has improved in the nine months that we've been here."

Southampton are currently sixth in the league table after 10 games.