Jenas backs Watford star Deeney for England

Jermaine Jenas knows an England player when he sees one having won 21 international caps, and the former midfielder is adamant Watford striker Troy Deeney fits the bill.

Deeney has scored three goals so far this season after netting 13 times last year as he helped Watford survive in their first season back in the Premier League.

But the 28-year-old is yet to be capped by England, who boast the likes of Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy and Daniel Sturridge as attacking options, despite a series of impressive displays in the last 12 months.

However, caretaker England manager Gareth Southgate has injury concerns and Jenas believes Deeney should be under consideration.

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“Since he has come into the Premier League with Watford, Deeney has been outstanding,” he said.

“We ask whether we should pick [Andy] Carroll, who is a hold-up man for England, but there are not many better at holding the ball up than Troy Deeney.

“We have got a lack of leaders apparently and he is Watford captain and leads that team by example week in and week out.

“He is good with the ball at his feet and he has scored three in the last four.”